Definition of extractnext
as in excerpt
a part taken from a longer work the anthology includes a long extract from the epic poem

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb extract contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of extract are educe, elicit, evoke, and extort. While all these words mean "to draw out something hidden, latent, or reserved," extract implies the use of force or pressure in obtaining answers or information.

extracted a confession from him

When would educe be a good substitute for extract?

The meanings of educe and extract largely overlap; however, educe implies the bringing out of something potential or latent.

educed order out of chaos

When is elicit a more appropriate choice than extract?

Although the words elicit and extract have much in common, elicit usually implies some effort or skill in drawing forth a response.

careful questioning elicited the truth

When can evoke be used instead of extract?

The words evoke and extract can be used in similar contexts, but evoke implies a strong stimulus that arouses an emotion or an interest or recalls an image or memory.

a song that evokes warm memories

In what contexts can extort take the place of extract?

The words extort and extract are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, extort suggests a wringing or wresting from one who resists strongly.

extorted their cooperation by threatening to inform

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of extract
Verb
He was said to have applied for his company, Shawty Dred LLC, to become an authorized SNAP retailer and used EBT debit cards to extract about $4 million from the accounts. — Arkansas Online, 2 Nov. 2026 Kay’s latest appeal says his trial lawyer pressured him to reject a plea deal carrying five to 10 years and questions testimony about who extracted data from Skaggs’ phone. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026
Noun
Unlike many hair growth tonics, which contain minoxidil (an over-the-counter drug that poses potential side effects), Briogeo’s hair growth serum is powered by plant extracts and vitamins that are essential to hair health. — Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 29 Oct. 2026 Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and trehalose provide hydration, while fermented extracts from pear, pomegranate, and barley to complete the ingredient list. — Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Verb
  • Quinn Sullivan started the sequence with a cross in front of goal that Indiana Vassilev settled and pulled goalkeeper William Yarbrough out of his area to find Cavan Sullivan for a close-range finish into an empty net.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 8 Nov. 2026
  • After Stephen Colbert was accused of crossing a picket line during a Harvard University event, the evening was cut short when someone pulled a fire alarm.
    — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 8 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • The interview excerpt below features Dunn, Mosher and Arthur, and has been shortened for context.
    — Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Watch the video below and read on for edited excerpts of our conversation.
    — David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 6 Nov. 2026
Verb
  • November is the time to play up your outerwear game, and this leopard-print coat feels like it was plucked straight from my mood board.
    — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 4 Nov. 2026
  • This distinct atmosphere is especially noticeable in the second set when Cooper swaps his trap set for a balafon and Taylor reaches into his piano to pluck the strings.
    — Levi Dayan, Pitchfork, 3 Nov. 2026
Verb
  • Coach Curt Cignetti did not say if Hoover was yanked because of an injury.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 31 Oct. 2026
  • There’s also no close partnership to mirror the one in TOS, where Spock is there to constantly yank Kirk back in line.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

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