Emily Dickinson Lexicon

RE-TRACT', v.t. [Fr. retracter; Norm. retraicter; L. retractus, retraho; re and traho, to draw.]

1. To recall, as a declaration, words or saying; to disavow; to recant; as, to retract an accusation, charge or assertion. I would as freely have retracted the charge of idolatry, as I ever made it. – Stillingfleet.
2. To take back; to rescind. [Little used.] – Woodward.
3. To draw back, as claws.