Withdraw

Definition

"To withdraw" primarily means to remove or take away something from a particular place or from consideration. It can also refer to the act of leaving or departing from a place, or ceasing to participate in an activity.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɪðˈdrɔ/
• Respelling: with-DRAW

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɪðˈdrɔː/
• Respelling: with-DRAW

In both American and British English, "withdraw" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable. The word begins with "with," followed by a stressed "draw." The primary difference lies in the length of the vowel sound in the second syllable; the American pronunciation uses a shorter /ɔ/ sound, while the British pronunciation uses a longer /ɔː/ sound.

Etymology

The term "withdraw" is derived from the combination of Old English "with-" meaning "away" and "drawan" meaning "to draw". Together, they convey the action of drawing or moving something away.

Derivatives

• Withdrawal
• Withdrawn
• Withdrawer
• Withdrawing
• Withdrawable

Synonyms

• Remove
• Retract
• Depart

Antonyms

• Deposit
• Advance
• Approach

Usage

The term "withdraw" is commonly used in both daily conversations and formal contexts. Whether discussing a decision to remove funds from a bank, take back a statement, or leave a particular place or situation, "withdraw" is the verb that captures the essence of these actions.

Related Terms

• Retire
• Retreat
• Extract
• Exit
• Rescind

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To take or remove something (especially money) from a particular place or position.‍
• Example: She decided to withdraw some money from her savings account.

• To move back or away from a place or situation; to retreat.‍
• Example: The army decided to withdraw from the frontline.

• To take back or revoke a statement, accusation, or commitment.‍
• Example: He withdrew his allegations after realizing they were unfounded.

• To cease to participate in an activity or be a member of a team or organization.‍
• Example: The player decided to withdraw from the tournament due to injury.

• To remove oneself from a particular situation or environment, often to be alone.‍
• Example: He tends to withdraw to his room when he's upset.