detract

[ dih-trakt ]

verb (used without object)

1. to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually followed by from ).

verb (used with object)

1. to draw away or divert; distract:

   to detract another's attention from more important issues.

2. Archaic. to take away (a part); abate:

   The dilapidated barn detracts charm from the landscape.

detract

/ dɪˈtrækt /

verb

1. whenintr, usually foll by from to take away a part (of); diminish

   her anger detracts from her beauty

2. tr to distract or divert
3. obsolete.
   tr to belittle or disparage

Usage

Detract is sometimes wrongly used where distract is meant: a noise distracted (not detracted ) my attention

Derived Forms

• deˈtractingly, adverb
• deˈtractively, adverb
• deˈtractive, adjective
• deˈtractor, noun

Other Word Forms

• de·tract·ing·ly adverb
• de·trac·tor noun
• un·de·tract·ing adjective
• un·de·tract·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of detract¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Middle French detracter or directly from Latin dētractus “drawn away” (past participle of dētrahere ), equivalent to dē- de- + tractus “drawn”; tract ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of detract¹

C15: from Latin dētractus drawn away, from dētrahere to pull away, disparage, from de- + trahere to drag

Example Sentences

"I wanted to be able to contribute to the song rather than detract."

From BBC

They said that it detracted from what Washington was trying to achieve and pursued a war of words rather than an end to the conflict.

From BBC

“Because I love seeing other people achieve great things. Anything that Patrick is doing I don’t believe will ever detract from what I accomplished in my career.”

From Los Angeles Times

Did this detract from the Grammys, described by Noah as “what Valentine’s Day is to romance, and Father’s Day is to Nick Cannon,” from being wildly colorful and satisfying?

From Salon

The nation’s top doctor had spent his two terms interviewing citizens across the country learning about what contributed to and detracted from their mental and physical health.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draw away