draw out

verb

drew out; drawn out; drawing out; draws out

transitive verb

1
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

Examples of draw out in a Sentence

the actor refused to draw out the interview any further
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are many scientific studies that draw out the connection between scent and memory— our olfactory bulb’s intimate dance with scent almost creates a supernatural link between aromas and our deepest emotions. Stixx Mathews, Essence, 13 June 2025 But it was also drawn out as the licenses — covering men’s and women’s outerwear, luggage, women’s apparel, dresses, suits and swimwear — don’t all expire until 2027. Evan Clark, Footwear News, 12 June 2025 However, negotiations on contracts can often be drawn out over weeks and months. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 June 2025 Was there ever a world where his death was more drawn out? Katcy Stephan, Variety, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for draw out

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of draw out was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Draw out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/draw%20out. Accessed 23 Jun. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on draw out

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