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
Mildren’s latest product, the Micro Honey Harvester, is a compact, rechargeable device that extracts honey from spinning honeycomb cassettes. — Derek Rose, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 In that moment, walking through room after room of marble and silk and silver, all of it extracted from illiterate workers in the fields and fishing boats on the horizon, the reasons for the Protestant Reformation became fully clear to me. — Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026
Noun
This advanced system extracts far more electricity from thermal energy than conventional steam circuits, making the total installation much more efficient. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026 The seasonal baking find works out to roughly 48 cents per bean and can be used in holiday desserts or to make homemade vanilla extract, according to reports. — Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Verb
  • Carl drops onto the couch, pulls Maribeth down on top of him.
    — George Saunders, New Yorker, 18 Oct. 2026
  • When Randle pulls a defender into the paint, Porter has room to shoot if the ball comes back out.
    — C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News, 18 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • These are edited excerpts from the conversation, which includes spoilers.
    — Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Justice’s involvement in GTA extends a run of previews that have already featured excerpts of its music, including the game’s earlier extended look.
    — SPIN Staff, SPIN, 15 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • As the party winded down, guests plucked final bites off silver platters and marveled at how tall Skarsgård truly is in person—his nearly six-foot-five frame barely fit under the bar’s low ceilings.
    — Kenneal Patterson, Vanity Fair, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Starring alongside Amell is a slew of objectively hot influencers and models plucked straight off the TikTok FYP, including Noah Beck, Olivia Dunne, and Brooks Nader.
    — Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 13 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Ignoring that rule could get flood insurance coverage yanked for an entire community.
    — Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Now, historic preservation advocates say, the government is trying to yank the public's power away.
    — Rachel Treisman, NPR, 15 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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