draw out

verb

drew out; drawn out; drawing out; draws out

transitive verb

1

: remove, extract

2

: to extend beyond a minimum in time : protract sense 1

3

: to cause to speak freely

a reporter's ability to draw a person out

Synonyms of draw out

• lengthen
• increase
• extend
• stretch
• drag (out)
• prolong

Examples of draw out in a Sentence

the actor refused to draw out the interview any further

Recent Examples on the Web

His breakdown moment with Lane’s Willy, whose explosive temper is finally subdued by his son’s desperate need to be seen, draws out all the tragic heartbreak of a classic that has been liberated from the customary domestic trappings only to be made more intimate. —Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026

However, Scatterty says that infrasound may have noticeable effects, which warrants further research, especially in environments where exposure is repeated or drawn out. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Add the rind with the braising liquid and allow the low, slow heat to draw out its flavor over time. —Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 24 Apr. 2026

Whereas the One&Only is more of a hideaway for honeymooners and high-rollers, the Rosewood aims to draw out more of a family-and-friends crowd—with five-star amenities, of course. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for draw out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

draw out

verb

1

: to cause to last longer than usual

2

: to cause or encourage to speak freely

tried to draw the shy child out