verb

retract

rih-TRAKT

Retract (verb) means to pull something back in, especially a part that extends outward. Example: “The cat retracted its claws once it calmed down.”

verb

To pull something back in, especially a part that extends outward.

"The cat retracted its claws once it calmed down."

"The plane's landing gear retracts after takeoff."

To take back a statement, promise, or accusation because it was wrong or shouldn't have been made.

"The newspaper was forced to retract its false claim."

"He retracted his earlier accusation once the truth came out."

How to use retract

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo pull something physically back in, or to officially withdraw something you said or wrote.

Common pairings

retract a statement retract claws retract an offer

Word forms

retracted past tense, retracted past tense, retracts plural, retract plural, retracted plural, retracts singular, retracts singular, retract singular, retractest singular, retracted singular, retractedst singular, retracteth singular

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The cat _____ its claws once it calmed down.

Etymology

From Latin retrahere, "to draw back" — from re- ("back") + trahere ("to pull").

Origin: Latin

Frequently asked questions

What does “retract” mean?

The word “retract” means to pull something back in, especially a part that extends outward. In plain terms, to pull something physically back in, or to officially withdraw something you said or wrote.

How do you pronounce “retract”?

“Retract” is pronounced rih-TRAKT (/ɹɪˈtɹækt/ in IPA).

How do you use “retract” in a sentence?

Here is “retract” used in a sentence: “The cat retracted its claws once it calmed down.”

What part of speech is “retract”?

“Retract” is a verb.

Where does the word “retract” come from?

The word “retract” comes from Latin. From Latin retrahere, "to draw back" — from re- ("back") + trahere ("to pull").

How many meanings does “retract” have?

“Retract” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to pull something back in, especially a part that extends outward.