Withdrew Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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withdrew

[wɪðˈdruː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past action

Withdrew is the simple past tense of withdraw, meaning to remove or take away something from a specified place. It can refer to taking money out of a bank, pulling back from participation in an event, or revoking a statement or decision. The word indicates a sense of retreating from a position or situation. It is often used in financial contexts, as well as in social or personal situations.

Synonyms

extracted, pulled back, removed, retracted, retreated.

Examples of usage

  • She withdrew $200 from her account.
  • He withdrew from the competition at the last minute.
  • After much contemplation, she withdrew her application for the job.
  • The army withdrew its troops after the peace treaty.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Withdrawing can be a defense mechanism where individuals retreat from stressful situations to protect their emotional well-being.
  • People may choose to withdraw from social situations when feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
  • This action can also signify self-preservation, allowing time for reflection before re-engaging.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, individuals can 'withdraw' a claim or statement, meaning they no longer wish to pursue it.
  • Withdrawing consent in legal situations means that a person no longer agrees to the terms previously accepted.
  • This action can significantly impact cases, as it may alter the course of legal proceedings.

Cultural Context

  • In certain cultures, withdrawing from conversation can be a sign of respect, allowing others to lead discussions.
  • The act of withdrawing from a group can also symbolize independence or a desire to reflect on one's beliefs and values.
  • In some traditions, withdrawal from societal activities is seen as a time for spiritual or personal growth.

Literature

  • In many literary works, characters withdraw when they face conflicts, signifying internal struggles or growth.
  • The theme of withdrawal often symbolizes isolation or a quest for identity in coming-of-age narratives.
  • Writers use withdrawal as a plot device to build tension, compelling characters to return stronger or changed.

Origin of 'withdrew'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'withdrywan', which means to pull back or take away.
  • In Middle English, it evolved into 'withdrawen' before becoming 'withdrew' in modern usage.
  • The prefix 'with' adds a sense of separation, while 'drew' relates to pulling or drawing something back.

The term 'withdrew' comes from the Old English word 'withdragan', composed of 'with' meaning 'against, back' and 'dragan' meaning 'to pull, to draw'. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to 'withdrawen' and eventually became 'withdraw' in Modern English. The past tense form 'withdrew' emerged as the language simplified to its current inflection patterns. The word historically has associations with distancing oneself from a location or a situation, translating across various forms of retreat, removal, and cessation. In legal and financial contexts, 'withdrew' has gained prominence, reflecting the removal of funds or requests from various processes. Its usage has broadened over centuries, adapting to various contexts while retaining the core idea of pulling back or taking away.


Word Frequency Rank

At #6,789 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.