Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Drawn back and in; withdrawn: Describes something that has been pulled back into its original or a more concealed position. Often used for body parts or mechanical components that can extend and retract.

Usage

• The word retracted is primarily used as an adjective to describe the state of something after the action of pulling it inward or backward.
• It is commonly applied to claws, landing gear, statements, or parts that have a retractable function.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The cat's claws were retracted, so its paws felt soft.
  • After landing, the pilot confirmed the wheels were fully retracted.
  • The journalist issued a retracted statement, withdrawing the earlier claim.

Advanced Usage

• In a retracted position: Fully describing the state of being withdrawn.
  • The telescope's lens must be kept in a retracted position when not in use.
• Formally retracted: Used in academic or legal contexts regarding withdrawn publications or claims.
  • The paper was formally retracted by the journal due to flawed data.

Variants and Related Words

• Retract (verb): To draw back or in; to withdraw a statement or promise.
  • The mechanic can retract the landing gear with this lever.
• Retractable (adjective): Capable of being drawn back or in.
  • This pen has a retractable tip.
• Retraction (noun): The act of retracting; a formal withdrawal.
  • The newspaper printed a retraction for its error.

Synonyms

• Withdrawn: Taken back or removed.
• Receded: Moved back or away.
• Pulled in: Drawn inward.

Antonyms

• Extended: Stretched out or lengthened.
• Protruding: Sticking out; projecting.
• Deployed: Brought into position for use.

Related Phrases

• To have retracted: (Verb phrase) To have pulled something back.
  • The turtle had retracted its head into its shell.
• Retracted into itself: Describes something, often abstract, that has withdrawn.
  • The company retracted into itself during the crisis, halting all expansion.

Adjective

1. drawn back and in
   • a cat with retracted claws