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American Dictionary of the English Language

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Retract


RETRACT', verb transitive [Latin retractus, retraho; re and traho, to draw.]

1. To recall, as a declaration, words or saying; to disavow; to recant; as, to retract an accusation, charge or assertion.

I would as freely have retracted the charge of idolatry, as I ever made it.

2. To take back; to rescind. [Little Used.]

3. To draw back, as claws.

RETRACT', verb transitive To take back; to unsay; to withdraw concession or declaration.

She will, and she will not; she grants, denies, consents, retracts, advances, and then flies.

RETRACT', noun Among horsemen, the prick of a horse's foot in nailing a shoe.