extract 1 of 2

Definition of extractnext

extract

2 of 2

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
Despite ongoing questions around the extent of the revenue and efficiency gains businesses can extract from hefty AI investments, large enterprises remain overwhelmingly bullish on the tech. John Kell, Fortune, 28 Jan. 2026 For lemons or limes, use a citrus juicer to extract the liquid to use in dressings, drinks, desserts, or to add acidity to dishes. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Jan. 2026
Noun
Research suggests monk fruit extract may reduce glucose and insulin levels after a meal. Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2026 The study, which was published in the journal Aging and Disease, paired low-dose THC extract with celecoxib, which was administered to mice daily for 30 days. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Noun
  • No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
    Scott Eden, Rolling Stone, 1 Feb. 2026
  • An excerpt from the original 1986 interview by Franz Lidz is below.
    Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The Bulldogs pulled within 69-66 with just over nine minutes remaining, but the Aggies answered with back-to-back three-pointers from Ali Dibba and Jacari Lane to regain control.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Video shows the girl carefully pulling a coaster from the tower before the entire structure cascades downward in seconds, prompting audible reactions from spectators.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The three Democrats addressed the letter on Wednesday to the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice, urging the agencies to review recent deals in which tech companies have paid to pluck specific employees from startups without acquiring the companies entirely.
    Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 4 Feb. 2026
  • For one, open transferring and revenue-sharing for players have made Power 4 schools more inclined to swoop in and pluck smaller schools’ more finished products rather than develop their own.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 1 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Both Blazy and Anderson, millennials with big brains, are yanking the fusty business of extraordinary clothes into the present – the former with a swell of empathy, and the other with a cerebral but intimate approach.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 30 Jan. 2026
  • Thom yanked on his jeans, gave me one last sharp look and slammed the door.
    Nick Dothée, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on extract

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