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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn 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
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like retract.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- retracts
- Third person singular
- retracts
- Past tense
- retracted
- Archaic forms
- retractest, retractedst, retracteth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The cat _____ its claws once it calmed down.
Etymology
From Latin retrahere, "to draw back" — from re- ("back") + trahere ("to pull").
Related words
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.
