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
Moreover, the short extension of the trade armistice only underscores its fragility; Beijing is still squeezing flows of rare earths to extract concessions from the US and coerce its allies, including Japan. — Andy Browne, semafor.com, 26 Sep. 2026 One of the bigger lingering questions is whether Iran will accept a new negotiation that Washington could use to extract further concessions. — Mostafa Salem, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 2026
Noun
White tea extracts may also help protect collagen and elastin, which help keep your skin firm and flexible. — Brandi Jones, HEALTH, 24 Sep. 2026 This anti-aging cream delivers protein peptides to the skin to boost collagen, along with other tried-and-true ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and organic green tea leaf extract, for hydration and brightening. — Mariana Best, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Verb
  • The backstory Wynn Las Vegas opened in 2005 on the site of the old Desert Inn, with Encore following in 2008; the big move was pulling spectacle inside instead of giving it away free at the curb.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Sep. 2026
  • Swift pulled from a few melodramatic thrillers throughout the years.
    — Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 28 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Wever herself was in Dunham’s 2010 film, Tiny Furniture, and read an excerpt of her memoir aloud for The New Yorker.
    — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 24 Sep. 2026
  • This invigorating excerpt was written by then-Director of Information at the State Department of Education Bernice McCullar.
    — AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 22 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Paired with a prominent pink lip and punctuating updo, the glam appeared as if it were plucked from an early 2000s look book.
    — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Hot on the heels of Gigi Hadid’s Valentino Haute Couture opener, the Italian supermodel swept onto the runway in an equally showstopping look from the house’s archives—plucked straight from the Pierpaolo Piccioli era.
    — Alice Abbiadati, Vogue, 23 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • The catch is that the number of neutrons in the universe plummeted during the game, like chairs being yanked out of line.
    — Cara Giovanetti, The Conversation, 25 Sep. 2026
  • However, multiple lab-wide reorganizations after NASA yanked its flagship Mars project increased the overhead for other projects like GRACE-Continuity.
    — Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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