Extract Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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extract

[ɪkˈstrækt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

data processing

To remove or take out something, especially information or data from a larger set.

Synonyms

fetch, gather, retrieve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extract

This word is used in the context of obtaining information or data from a source.

  • The program can extract data from multiple databases
  • He extracted important details from the long report
retrieve

This word is used when you need to get back something that was lost, left somewhere, or stored.

  • She managed to retrieve her lost keys
  • The software allows users to retrieve deleted files
gather

This word is used when you are collecting several things together from different places or sources, often systematically.

  • We need to gather all documents before the meeting
  • They gathered fruits from the orchard
fetch

This word is usually used when you need to go somewhere to get something and bring it back.

  • Can you fetch me a glass of water? The dog fetched the ball during the game

Examples of usage

  • We need to extract the relevant information from the database.
  • The software can extract data from multiple sources and consolidate it into one report.
Context #2 | Verb

chemistry

To obtain a substance from a mixture by a chemical or physical process.

Synonyms

isolate, purify, separate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extract

Used when taking a specific substance out of a mixture or source, often in a process where the substance is physically removed.

  • The doctor had to extract a splinter from the patient's finger.
  • They extract oil from underground reserves.
separate

Used when dividing a combined mixture into its individual components or parts. It can apply to both physical items and abstract concepts.

  • The kids were taught to separate their recyclables from the trash.
  • She needed to separate her personal life from her work.
isolate

Utilized when separating one element from a group to identify or study it specifically. Often used in scientific and medical contexts.

  • The scientist needed to isolate the bacteria to study its properties.
  • During the quarantine, he was isolated from other people.
purify

Applied when removing impurities or unwanted elements from a substance to make it pure. Common in contexts involving cleaning or refining processes.

  • The company used advanced methods to purify the drinking water.
  • They work to purify metals in the refining process.

Examples of usage

  • We need to extract the compound from the solution for further analysis.
  • The extraction of essential oils from plants is a delicate process.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, extracting refers to separating substances to obtain desired components for study.
  • Plant extracts are commonly used in herbal medicine, showcasing the therapeutic properties of various plants.

Literature

  • In writing, an extract from a book or text is a selected portion used to illustrate a point or to provide insight.
  • Famous authors like Shakespeare often have their texts 'extracted' for analysis to teach about themes and styles.

Technology

  • Data extraction is a critical process in programming where information is pulled from databases for analysis or use.
  • Modern extraction tools can gather vast amounts of data from various sources, emphasizing the term's relevance in the digital age.

Pop Culture

  • The 2009 movie 'Extract' is a comedy focusing on a man who runs a food flavor company and faces many comedic challenges.
  • In music, the term can be used for remixing songs where DJs 'extract' certain beats or vocals for new tracks.

Origin of 'extract'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'extractus', which means 'to draw out' or 'to pull out'.
  • It was first used in English in the late 14th century, mainly in references to medicines.

The word 'extract' comes from the Latin word 'extractus', which is the past participle of 'extrahere', meaning 'to draw out' or 'to pull out'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century and has evolved to encompass various meanings in different fields such as data processing, chemistry, and more.


See also: extracted, extracting, extraction, extractor, extracts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,851, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.