Find Synonyms
retract Synonyms
Another word for retract
Choosing another word for retract depends on context, so the 15 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To formally withdraw or disavow a statement, accusation, promise, or offer as untrue, unjustified, or no longer valid.
Usage Example
"The scientific journal had to withdraw the paper after independent researchers discovered serious flaws in the experimental data."
Strongest
withdraw
take back
recant
Strong
disavow
rescind
revoke
repudiate
renounce
abjure
• verb (Context 2)
To draw or be drawn back or inward (such as an animal's claws, a mechanical part, or aircraft landing gear).
Usage Example
"Shortly after liftoff, the pilot flipped a switch to pull back the airplane's landing gear."
Strongest
pull back
draw back
withdraw
Strong
pull in
draw in
sheathe
recede
Opposites of retract
The opposite of retract shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
extend
affirm
reiterate
protrude
confirm
uphold
project
maintain
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Retract. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/retract