Identify the word that is closest in meaning to the word Retract:-
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Recede
To retract is to draw something back or pull it in, and also to withdraw a statement. Its synonym is recede.
Example: The cat retracted its claws.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Recover | to get well again or get back something lost (it is not drawing back) | She recovered quickly after the operation. |
| (2) Regain | to get back something one had lost | He regained his strength after a week. |
| (3) Recede (answer) | to move back or away from a position (both words carry the idea of drawing back, so recede is the word closest in meaning to retract among the options) | The flood waters slowly receded. |
| (4) Avenge | to punish someone in return for a wrong (it has nothing to do with drawing back) | The hero swore to avenge his father's death. |
| Also asked in CUET (UG): retract – 28-05-2025 Slot 1, 15-05-2025 Slot 2 recede – 30-05-2026 Slot 1, 17-08-2022 Slot 2 |