detract

[dih-trakt]

verb (used without object)

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

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. 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

Other Word Forms

• detractingly adverb
• detractor noun
• undetracting adjective
• undetractingly adverb
• detractively adverb
• detractive adjective

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

But does that detract from the novel’s overarching message about the value of love, in all its forms, in the lives of these always-endearing characters?

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He said while the ABC has displayed some contrition - including through the public apology - their failure to investigate who leaked Lattouf's sacking to the media detracts from that.

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Having arrived as favourites, losing on penalties to England meant it was far from ideal for her country, but that does not detract from the incredible story of her comeback.

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After experiencing such warm hospitality elsewhere in Detroit, I was a little surprised by the cooler reception at check-in, but it didn’t detract from my stay.

Read more on Salon

Here’s one way to think about Chuck’s Arcade: Imagine a Chuck E. Cheese, but subtract the pizza and detract the drinks.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draw away