retract

[rɪˈtrækt]

retract Definition

• 1. to take back something that you have said or agreed
• 2. to pull something back into something; to withdraw something

Using retract: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "retract" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The newspaper was forced to retract its story.

• Example

  He retracted his hand from the fire.

• Example

  The cat retracted its claws.

• Example

  She retracted her statement after realizing it was false.

retract Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for retract

• withdraw
• recall
• revoke
• rescind
• reconsider

Antonyms for retract

• assert
• declare
• maintain

Phrases with retract

• retract one's steps

  to go back along the same route that one has just taken

  Example

  I realized I had left my phone at the office and had to retract my steps to retrieve it.

• retract one's horns

  to become less aggressive or argumentative

  Example

  After realizing he was wrong, he retracted his horns and apologized for his behavior.

• retract one's neck

  to pull one's head back in a defensive or fearful manner

  Example

  The turtle retracted its neck into its shell when it sensed danger.

Origins of retract

from Latin 'retractare', meaning 'to draw back'

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Summary: retract in Brief

To 'retract' [rɪˈtrækt] means to take back something that has been said or agreed upon, or to pull something back into something. Examples include 'The newspaper was forced to retract its story,' and 'She retracted her statement after realizing it was false.' The phrase 'retract one's steps' means to go back along the same route, while 'retract one's horns' means to become less aggressive or argumentative.