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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
Left to deal with his body, Silvana must extract the drug capsules and seek help from her estranged father, confronting trauma and family history. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 18 Aug. 2025 In a lab study, fiber extracted from sweet potato skin increased beneficial bacteria and decreased harmful bacteria in the gut. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 18 Aug. 2025
Noun
The alcohol- and fragrance-free formula uses 2% salicylic acid (the standard amount found in over-the-counter products) to clear out pores and papaya enzymes to brighten, while moringa seed extract and antioxidant-rich chlorella help hydrate and calm. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 9 Aug. 2025 Monk fruit extract is 100–250 times sweeter than sugar, thanks to compounds called mogrosides, which do not raise blood sugar. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 6 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for extract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extract
Noun
  • During his presentation to planners, Kleven showed excerpts from the town’s comprehensive master plan, which called for more affordable housing.
    Deborah Laverty, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025
  • As such, following are edited excerpts from our conversations over the years.
    Jim Clash, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Brands began to pull together resources to support refugees.
    Stephan Rabimov, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
  • The 13-minute performance will likely call for a healthy dose of vibrant, colored lighting to pull it all together.
    Kelly Allen, House Beautiful, 10 Feb. 2023
Verb
  • There are scenes that look like they could have been plucked directly from the original film.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025
  • Interiors feel plucked from another time period—freestanding cast iron tubs, brown antique furniture, Victorian brass bed frames—and still manage to be quietly current.
    Katharine Sohn, Architectural Digest, 15 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Rafael Devers came up next and yanked an 0-1 fastball up in the zone over the wall in right-center field.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Aug. 2025
  • Sinner’s serve yanked him out to the left corner of the court.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extract. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on extract

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