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

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
Congressional Republicans have sent President Donald Trump a resolution that would lift a federal ban on mining near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, hoping to clear the way for a South American company to extract precious metals from the region’s pristine forests, lakes and bogs. Todd Richmond, Twin Cities, 16 Apr. 2026 Just load up fresh coffee grounds into the bottom, add hot water to the top, unlock the piston, and press the button to extract it back into the top water receptacle. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Amisha Gurbani, San Francisco Chronicle, 10 Apr. 2026 Under this system, manufacturers can use limitless amounts of sugar and refined grain products — traditional ingredients — but not a range of benign or beneficial ingredients such as protein concentrates, fiber, flavor extracts, or even carbonation. David S. Ludwig, STAT, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Noun
  • Shown in excerpts at Cannes, all five films are now in post-production and bid fair to hit festivals later this year.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 14 Apr. 2026
  • No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
    Danielle Parker, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • But the next morning, the equipment had to be pulled.
    Peter Van Sant, CBS News, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Many Democrats are pulling endorsements and demanding Swalwell exit the race.
    Diana Paulsen, ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • With its cast of characters essentially plucked from Fugard’s early life in Port Elizabeth, the play introduces Hally (a stand-in for Fugard) at a crossroads.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026
  • Winners are plucked by a steering committee that zeroes in on recipients based on biography, impact and visionary practices.
    Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 14 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Filial duty yanked him right back to Passyunk Avenue, flipping Australian rib-eye alongside a patriarch who rested only on Sunday afternoons.
    Danielle Paquette The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 12 Apr. 2026
  • But cystic fibrosis was a tether, yanking O’Neal back home for treatments.
    Courtney Crowder, USA Today, 10 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.

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