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 Words From

• 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

Describing Gill as "a friend, colleague and confidante" before her fraud was discovered, she said she felt "totally deceived and betrayed" by her actions, which had caused personal stress and detracted from day-to-day school management.

From BBC

While the controversy has attracted a lot of attention in international media and online, it has not really dented or detracted from Black Myth’s overwhelmingly positive reception.

From BBC

"What may or may not have happened behind the scenes does not and hopefully should not detract from what our intentions were in making this film," Brandon wrote in his statement.

From BBC

Suzanne understands the assignment of being Beckett’s wife, standing guard against anything that could detract from his higher mission.

From Los Angeles Times

Do you think this enhances or detracts from your work?

From Salon

Related Words

• draw away