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
Those contracts call for Next Hydrogen to design and deliver an electrolyzer that extracts tritium from heavy water, a critical process for preparing fuel used in future fusion reactors. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 30 June 2026 Two years ago, a New York Times investigation found that America’s largest pharmacy benefit managers steer patients to costlier drugs, charge steep markups and extract billions in hidden fees. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 27 June 2026
Noun
The brand uses a combination of stevia extract and sucralose, which are zero calorie sweeteners. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 6, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026 While most people enjoy eating the arils after separating them from the bitter white membrane that encircle them, other parts of the fruit can also be used to make juice or extracts. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Verb
  • Fire alarms sounded after a resident pulled the alarm, prompting crews to evacuate buildings as a precaution.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
  • Sorloth played high, facilitating Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard to rotate wide and pull deeper to get on the ball.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • Although excerpts were published internationally, the full memoir was only rediscovered by historian Jonathan Schroeder in 2016.
    Brian DeLay, Mercury News, 4 July 2026
  • Earlier, authorities blocked access to excerpts of Goktas' show, including pokes at Erdogan, that were uploaded onto social media.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Patina Osaka’s ground-floor restaurant, P72, focuses on seasonal produce sourced nearby and plucked daily from the hotel’s urban garden.
    Kathryn Romeyn, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026
  • Eyebrows were being plucked into oblivion, bronzer was used in excess, and hair was parted deeply to one side.
    Lauren Alberti, Allure, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • Then, five days after the best start of his young MLB career coincided with one of his worst moments, he was yanked after just 2 1/3 innings in Sunday’s 11-5 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
    Spencer Nusbaum, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • Winco also yanked about 13,500 Roman Candles 8 Shot 3-Pack Firework Devices.
    David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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