noun

retractor

rih-TRAK-tuh

Retractor (noun) means a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation. Example: “The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open.”

noun

A surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation.

"The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open."

A mechanism in a firearm that pulls the spent cartridge case out of the chamber.

"The rifle's retractor ejected the spent shell automatically."

How to use retractor

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA tool or part designed to pull something back, most often heard in a surgical context.

Word forms

retractors plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “retractor” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The nurse handed the surgeon a _____ to keep the incision open.

Etymology

From retract + -or, "one that retracts."

Rhymes for retractor

actor factor tractor reactor compactor extractor contractor benefactor chiropractor

See all rhymes for retractor →

Frequently asked questions

What does “retractor” mean?

The word “retractor” means a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation. In plain terms, a tool or part designed to pull something back, most often heard in a surgical context.

How do you pronounce “retractor”?

“Retractor” is pronounced rih-TRAK-tuh (/ɹɪˈtɹæktɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “retractor” in a sentence?

Here is “retractor” used in a sentence: “The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open.”

What part of speech is “retractor”?

“Retractor” is a noun.

How many meanings does “retractor” have?

“Retractor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation.