Synonyms of extract

extract 1 of 2

verb

ik-ˈstrakt 

as in to pry

to draw out by force or with effort

extracted a splinter from my hand

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pry
• pull
• pluck
• yank
• remove
• uproot
• tear (out)
• prize
• take (out)
• wrest
• wring
• root (out)
• withdraw
• mine
• corkscrew

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• insert
• install
• instill
• implant
• stuff
• jam
• ram
• cram
• wedge

extract

2 of 2

noun

ˈek-ˌstrakt 

as in excerpt

a part taken from a longer work

the anthology includes a long extract from the epic poem

Synonyms & Similar Words

• excerpt
• passage
• quotation
• clip
• snippet
• sample
• citation
• context
• sound bite
• purple passage
• locus classicus
• selection
• longueur

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

Recent Examples of extract

Verb

One of the greatest potential dangers to that fragile ecosystem is deep-ocean mining—industrializing the untouched and unseen ocean floor to extract nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, gold, silver, and more. —Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 5 June 2025

Around the world, nefarious state and nonstate actors are extracting enormous value from forests to fund their operations. —Justyna Gudzowska, Foreign Affairs, 2 June 2025

Noun

Add 3 cups sugar, half-and-half, vanilla, and mint extract; beat at low speed until a smooth dough forms, 1 to 2 minutes. —Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 2 June 2025

Aloe vera products taken by mouth include fresh aloe juice, sap, capsules, extracts, gels, and powders.24 Precautions Although aloe vera is considered safe for most people. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 2 June 2025