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
Like gallium, germanium is generally recovered as a by-product rather than extracted from dedicated mines. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026 The perishable fruits and vegetables were long imported through the Strait of Hormuz to Saudi Arabia’s eastern coasts, now closed by dueling blockades and Iranian demands to extract tolls. Taylor Luck, Christian Science Monitor, 17 Aug. 2026
Noun
Plus, the new longevity blend is made with organic marjoram extract to increase elasticity and reduce signs of aging over time, per the brand’s website. Tessa Petak, InStyle, 14 Aug. 2026 Then there’s vitamin B3 for brightening and a trio of botanical extracts to support the skin barrier. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Verb
  • The Moon enters Sagittarius and your 4th House of Home, Family, and Emotional Roots, pulling your focus toward rest, privacy, space, or household needs.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 20 Aug. 2026
  • With a steam engine, the boat pulled heavy cargo between Budapest and other towns along the Danube.
    CBS News, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Let’s dive into some excerpts from his book, which is available for preorder.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Interview excerpts, including those shared on People magazine’s social media, have Martha discussing her shopping habits, including her hunt for the perfect oxtails.
    Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The streamer has found its leading lady for the biopic, plucking an unknown first-timer to play the sertanejo icon.
    Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Just walk out the back door, pluck a warm peach off the tree, and try to think of a more quintessentially summer experience.
    Heather Bien, Southern Living, 12 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • In a desperate attempt to avoid getting their fingers caught in the cookie jar, there is a pell-mell sprint toward finding a watermark removal app that can yank out the digital watermarks.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026
  • For months, many at City Hall had expected Raman to make a stink if she was yanked from her post, transforming herself into a martyr.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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