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Definition of retraction

retraction

/ɹɪˈtɹæk.ʃən/
re · trac · tion
Plural:retractions
•
Adjective:retractile
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retraction Lexical Profile

retraction Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The action of drawing back or taking back a statement, accusation, or published work as untrue or unjustified; a formal statement that does so.

Example

"The newspaper issued a public retraction on its front page after discovering that the source had fabricated the data."

2

The physical action of drawing or pulling something back or inward, such as a mechanical part, tissue, or a body part.

Example

"The pilot checked the indicator lights to confirm the complete retraction of the aircraft's landing gear."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for retraction

• Nearby Words

retrack
retract
retractable
retraction
retrain
retrainable
retrainee

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 15th century from Late Latin retractio, derived from the verb retrahere meaning 'to draw back or withdraw' (from re- 'back' + trahere 'to pull or draw').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Retraction. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/retraction
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