Definitions

detract

[dih-trakt] / dɪˈtrækt /

VERB

take away a part; lessen

Synonyms

STRONGEST

draw away

STRONG

backbite belittle blister cheapen decrease decry depreciate derogate devaluate diminish discount discredit disesteem knock lower minimize reduce underrate undervalue vilipend withdraw

WEAK

laugh at misprize subtract from write off

Antonyms

STRONG

commend compliment develop enlarge exaggerate exalt expand extend grow increase laud overestimate overrate overvalue praise raise upgrade value

WEAK

add to optimize

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It would detract from a key virtue of Eurobonds in a country’s financing mix: simplicity, for issuers and for investors.

From Barron's • Jun. 23, 2026

Riley is mindful that his film’s more outré moments don’t detract from the underlying emotions he is trying to convey.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Should they detract from her advice, when maybe hearing “I have a good kid” could really help someone?

From Slate • May 10, 2026

Sadly we lost 1-0 to an emerging Manchester City side but that result does not detract from the magic of the FA Cup - I can't wait to see what this weekend brings.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

The cold does not detract from the area’s beauty: Tiwanaku sits in the middle of a plain ringed by ice-capped mountains.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Vocabulary lists containing detract

Abraham Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address" (1863)

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Grade 9, List 6

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The Gettysburg Address," Vocabulary from the speech

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!