noun

retraction

rih-TRAK-shun/rɪˈtrækʃn/

The act of drawing something back.

The newspaper publishes a retraction when its original report proves inaccurate.

A newspaper prints a clear correction note reading exactly “We retract the claim.” with earlier crossed-out statement beside it.

Etymology

reLatinback

+tractLatinto draw

+ionLatinact or process

A retraction is figuratively a drawing back of an opinion or claim. The English noun originally named a work correcting earlier writings, closely connecting withdrawal with acknowledging error.

In context

Schwartz & Schwartz2:31

sue you for defamation of character and the newspaper will print a retraction to try and undo some of the damage that they caused

Can I Demand A Retraction?

More examples

The editor requests a retraction of the unsupported claim.
The pilot checks the retraction of the landing gear.
A spring controls the retraction of the tape measure.

Forms

retraction · retractions

retract verb — To draw back or withdraw something.

Similar words

withdrawal: Covers taking something back without necessarily admitting an error.
recantation: Specifically involves formally rejecting a previously held belief or statement.