recant
15 synonyms and 7 antonyms for recant, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To formally take back a statement or belief you previously expressed, especially in public.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use recant
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
recant a confession
forced to recant
refuse to recant
Etymology
First recorded in 1535, from Latin recantare ("to sing back, to revoke"), from re- plus canto ("to sing").
Full origin of recant →Frequently asked questions
What does “recant” mean?
The word “recant” means to formally take back a statement or belief you previously expressed, especially in public. In plain terms, publicly withdrawing something you said or believed before.
How do you pronounce “recant”?
“Recant” is pronounced ruh-KANT (/ɹəˈkænt/ in IPA).
How do you use “recant” in a sentence?
Here is “recant” used in a sentence: “Under pressure, the scientist was forced to recant his findings.”
What is another word for “recant”?
Words with a similar meaning to “recant” include abjure, backpedal, disavow, disown, eat one's words and recall.
What is the opposite of “recant”?
The opposite of “recant” — its antonyms — are affirm, aver, double down, maintain and stand firm.
What part of speech is “recant”?
“Recant” is a verb.
Where does the word “recant” come from?
The word “recant” dates back to around 1535 and comes from Latin. First recorded in 1535, from Latin recantare ("to sing back, to revoke"), from re- plus canto ("to sing").
