retracted
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈtræktɪd/
KK: /rɪˈtræktɪd/
adjective
Definition
Moved back or withdrawn, especially in reference to something that can be pulled in or retracted.
Example
The cat's claws were retracted when it was relaxed.
Conversation
Did you see that cat? Its claws were totally retracted when it was playing.
Yeah! It looked so cute and harmless like that.
I wonder if they do that to feel safer or just to be playful.
Probably both! It’s fascinating how animals can switch between being fierce and friendly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
withdrawn
recessed
receding
Antonyms
extended
protruded
projecting
verb
Definition
To take back or withdraw something that was previously said or written.
Example
The author retracted his statement after realizing it was incorrect.
Tense Forms
Past: retracted
Past Participle: retracted
Conversation
Did you hear that he retracted his statement about the project?
Yeah, I saw that online — it was surprising!
I wonder what made him change his mind so quickly.
Root Explanation
Retracted → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "tractus" (from the Latin "tractare", meaning to draw or pull). The word "retracted" means drawn back or withdrawn.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'pulled back' ('tractus') again ('re-') — that's why retracted means to take something back.
Visually Confused Words
unretracted
refracted
extracted
retiracied
restricted
reiterated
protracted
retorted