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extract

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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

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
Apple Cider Apple cider is typically made by crushing apples into a pulp and pressing the pulp to extract juice. Jillian Kubala, Health, 23 Oct. 2025 Scientists from São Paulo State University's Araraquara School of Dentistry in Brazil tested morin — a naturally occurring compound extracted from the peels and leaves of certain fruits and vegetables — on bacterial biofilms that mimicked gum disease. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2025
Noun
Cough and Colds Ginger may be used alongside other herbs or plant extracts to treat a cough. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 21 Oct. 2025 Choose pure vanilla extract for superior flavor. Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Noun
  • On Friday, Andrew released a statement as excerpts from Giuffre's book began to surface.
    Christina Dugan Ramirez , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Below, an excerpt from that larger 2021 oral history.
    Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The pair took their Clueless looks to the next level by posing in front of a white Jeep just like the one driven by Cher in the movie — with Kim pouting at the wheel as North pulled a shocked face.
    Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Within seconds, several officers pull her toward the entrance of the facility as others move to hold back the crowd.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Pieces from Stock are often plucked by stylists for celebrity editorials for Vanity Fair, Esquire and GQ.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 24 Oct. 2025
  • This faux Dunhill Fir is designed to look and feel like a tree plucked straight off the lot, without the single-season lifespan or mess of shedding needles.
    Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • McDaniel even yanked Tagovailoa in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers after his third pick.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Mel Brooks’ best comedy shares many similarities with his other revered films – a strong grip of genre beats, a non-stop barrage of gags yanking us forward, and an eagerness to give every performer a chance to comedically shine.
    Rory Doherty, Vulture, 20 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on extract

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