"retract" Definition

Definitions for the word "retract" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v. t.
To draw back; to draw up or shorten; as, the cat can retract its claws; to retract a muscle.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
To withdraw; to recall; to disavow; to recant; to take back; as, to retract an accusation or an assertion.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v. t.
To take back,, as a grant or favor previously bestowed; to revoke.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. i.
To draw back; to draw up; as, muscles retract after amputation.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v. i.
To take back what has been said; to withdraw a concession or a declaration.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
The pricking of a horse's foot in nailing on a shoe.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. v.
1 withdraw (a statement or undertaking). 2 draw or be drawn back or in. retractable adj. Retraction n. [latin retraho -tract- draw back]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "retract" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "retract" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "retract") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

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