retraction

[ri-trak-shuhn] / rɪˈtræk ʃən /

NOUN

recantation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

annulment denial disavowal disclaimer repudiation reversal

STRONG

abjuration abnegation about-face abrogation contradiction disowning forswearing nullification recall revocation volte-face withdrawal

WEAK

backpedaling backtracking contraversion gainsaying reneging renouncing unsaying

Antonyms

WEAK

confirmation corroboration reaffirmation

NOUN

withdrawal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

disavowal

STRONG

abandonment nullification recantation rescission

WEAK

palinode

Antonyms

WEAK

confirmation corroboration reaffirmation

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.

Instead, its partial retraction is "rescued" by the rapid pace of early embryonic cell cycles.

From Science Daily • Feb. 28, 2026

Almost immediately after Takaichi's remarks, Beijing responded with a flurry of condemnation and demanded a retraction.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

The company declined to comment on the most recent retraction.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

Following fan backlash, Roan posted a retraction to her Instagram.

From Salon • Dec. 29, 2025

It was the slow retraction, the retreat into autonomy which signaled the approaching end of Briony’s childhood.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan