英文字典中文字典51ZiDian.com

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

Retraction \Re*trac"tion\ (r[-e]*tr[=a]k"sh[u^]n), n. [Cf. F.
r['e]traction, L. retractio a drawing back, hesitation.]
1. The act of retracting, or drawing back; the state of being
retracted; as, the retraction of a cat's claws.
[1913 Webster]

2. The act of withdrawing something advanced, stated,
claimed, or done; declaration of change of opinion;
recantation.
[1913 Webster]

Other men's insatiable desire of revenge hath wholly
beguiled both church and state of the benefit of all
my either retractions or concessions. --Eikon
Basilike.
[1913 Webster]

3. (Physiol.)
(a) The act of retracting or shortening; as, the
retraction of a severed muscle; the retraction of a
sinew.
(b) The state or condition of a part when drawn back, or
towards the center of the body.
[1913 Webster]