extractor

noun

ex·​trac·​tor ik-ˈstrak-tər 

: one that extracts

especially : the mechanism in a firearm that dislodges a spent cartridge from the chamber

Examples of extractor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This is the time to manually remove weeds by pulling or using a hoe or weed extractor. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 7 Mar. 2026

The extractor isolated lithium from competing sodium ions with a 370,000-fold efficiency. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 10 Feb. 2026

Tools such as advanced bolt extractors, left-hand drill bits, cutting wheels, and welders allow professionals to remove rusted or seized bolts safely and effectively. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026

The powerful motor and total crushing blade blends ice for frozen drinks, and the extractor blades are great for fruit and vegetable juices. —Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin extractōr-, extractor "drawer out, miner," from Latin extrac-, variant stem of extrahere "to pull out, draw forth" + -tōr-, -tor, agent suffix — more at extract entry 1

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for extractor

• attractor
• cofactor
• compactor
• contactor
• contractor
• distractor
• impactor
• protractor
• reactor
• redactor
• refractor
• retractor

Medical Definition

extractor

noun

ex·​trac·​tor ik-ˈstrak-tər  ˈek-ˌstrak- 

1

: an instrument used in extraction (as of a tooth)

2

: an apparatus for extracting substances by means of solvents