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extract

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noun

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
In return, the White House will support U.S. pharmaceutical companies in extracting higher prices from other countries. Cheyenne Haslett, ABC News, 12 May 2025 That hidden data is then extracted at its destination. Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
Noun
How to Take Chlorella and Spirulina Chlorella and spirulina are mainly sold as powder, tablets, extracts, capsules, or flakes. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 8 May 2025 The formula blends green tea extract for antioxidant protection, microsphere powders for that cushiony feel which dries down to a soft focus powder, and micronized pigments for a vibrant color pay off. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Noun
  • Following are edited excerpts from a longer Zoom conversation.
    Jim Clash, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
  • After billionaire media mogul Barry Diller publicly disclosed that he is mainly attracted to men in an excerpt from his forthcoming memoir, his wife of decades, fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg, responded to the public revelation.
    James Factora, Them., 7 May 2025
Verb
  • Brands began to pull together resources to support refugees.
    Stephan Rabimov, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
  • The 13-minute performance will likely call for a healthy dose of vibrant, colored lighting to pull it all together.
    Kelly Allen, House Beautiful, 10 Feb. 2023
Verb
  • Adams plucked out Shakespeare’s lines and mounted them like gems in a finely wrought score.
    Justin Davidson, Vulture, 13 May 2025
  • Companies are still developing mining vehicles, but one method would be to use large tractor-sized machines that drive across the sea floor plucking up nodules and transporting them via long pipes to a ship on the surface.
    Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 8 May 2025
Verb
  • His childhood home in Dolton happened to be on the market on the day of his election, but it was quickly yanked off when the owner heard the exciting news.
    Natalia Senanayake, People.com, 13 May 2025
  • The global economy had been yanked in every direction, nonstop, for weeks.
    Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 13 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on extract

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