Extract
To remove or take out; to obtain a substance from a mixture by a process; to derive or obtain information or conclusions from data or evidence.
verbExtract
To remove or take out; to obtain a substance from a mixture by a process; to derive or obtain information or conclusions from data or evidence.
verbImagine This
Picture a vanilla bean being soaked in alcohol to produce vanilla extract; the fragrant liquid is drawn out from the bean.
Sounds Like
ik-STRAKT
Looks Like
ex-tract (root: tract meaning draw or pull)
Remember This
Ex- means out and -tract relates to drawing; extract literally means to draw out something from its source.
Other Forms
Connect With
draw out, derive, withdraw, remove, excerpt, extraction, solvent
Note
Extract can be used as a verb (to remove or obtain) or as a noun (a substance obtained from something, or a short passage taken from a text). When talking about data or evidence, 'extract' means to obtain a meaningful piece of information or pattern. Common confusion with 'subtract'—extract is about drawing out, not subtracting.
Study Deeper
- The chemist extracted caffeine from coffee beans using a solvent.
- The dentist had to extract a troublesome tooth.
From Latin extrahere 'to draw out' (ex- meaning out + trahere meaning to pull or draw).
Ex-tract = Out + Draw. Remember that when you extract something, you draw it out from its source.
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Levity
nounHumor or frivolity, especially in situations where seriousness is appropriate; a lightness of mood.
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nounThe act or result of copying someone or something; a thing that imitates or resembles another.
Incongruous
adjectiveNot in harmony with the surroundings; inappropriate or out of place.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.
Absolve
verbTo free someone from blame or responsibility; to pardon or exonerate.