subtracts; subtracted; subtracting
: to take (a number or amount) from another number or amount
—usually + from
If we subtract 5 from 9, we get 4.
Subtract the expenses from your income.
The children are learning how to add and subtract. [=to perform subtraction]
Cite this Entry
“Subtract.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/subtract. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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