retraction

noun

re·​trac·​tion ri-ˈtrak-shən 

1

: an act of recanting

specifically : a statement made by one retracting

2

: an act of retracting : the state of being retracted

3

: the ability to retract

Examples of retraction in a Sentence

His charges were false, and he was forced to make a retraction.

the retraction of the plane's landing gear

Recent Examples on the Web

However, Twitch — like a lot of tech companies these days — is undergoing a period of retraction. —Ash Parrish, The Verge, 26 Sep. 2024

The journal Psychopharmacology posted retraction notices for three studies that involved Phase II clinical data of the therapy. —Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 12 Aug. 2024

The First Opinion authors reached out to journal publishers, journal editors, and managers of websites citing Lynn’s work, but their calls for retractions were routinely rebuffed. —Usha Lee McFarling, STAT, 20 June 2024

Its blade rails are designed to minimize residue buildup, ensuring smooth retraction even after extensive use. —New Atlas, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

retraction

noun

re·​trac·​tion ri-ˈtrak-shən 

1

: a statement taking back something previously said

2

: an act of retracting : the state of being retracted

3

: the ability to retract

Medical Definition

retraction

noun

re·​trac·​tion ri-ˈtrak-shən 

: an act or instance of retracting

specifically : backward or inward movement of an organ or part

retraction of the nipple or skin overlying the tumor

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

Legal Definition

retraction

noun

re·​trac·​tion ri-ˈtrak-shən 

: an act of taking back or withdrawing

retraction of a confession

her retraction of the defamatory statement