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

Despite a disappointing outlook for the near term, Buchalter said the company’s earnings call didn’t detract from his view that its free cash flow will “see expansion as this investment cycle abates.”

Read more on MarketWatch

Speaking on Wednesday before his first tournament since the Ryder Cup, McIlroy said the focus on the fans' behaviour detracts from a rare European win on American soil.

Read more on BBC

And when you’re with other people, pocket the phone: Even its mere presence diverts attention and detracts from enjoyment.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"In addition, unexpectedly finding cremated ashes detracts from the enjoyment of others in a wild place and may be deeply upsetting."

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Yet even politicians’ presence couldn’t detract from the happiness of the crowd, according to Mastbaum, who has been coming to Hostage Square every week for the last two years.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draw away