'Retraction' definitions:

Definition of 'retraction'

From: WordNet
noun
A disavowal or taking back of a previous assertion [syn: retraction, abjuration, recantation]
noun
The act of pulling or holding or drawing a part back; "the retraction of the landing gear"; "retraction of the foreskin"

Definition of 'Retraction'

From: GCIDE
  • Retraction \Re*trac"tion\ (r[-e]*tr[=a]k"sh[u^]n), n. [Cf. F. r['e]traction, L. retractio a drawing back, hesitation.]
  • 1. The act of retracting, or drawing back; the state of being retracted; as, the retraction of a cat's claws. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The act of withdrawing something advanced, stated, claimed, or done; declaration of change of opinion; recantation. [1913 Webster]
  • Other men's insatiable desire of revenge hath wholly beguiled both church and state of the benefit of all my either retractions or concessions. --Eikon Basilike. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Physiol.) (a) The act of retracting or shortening; as, the retraction of a severed muscle; the retraction of a sinew. (b) The state or condition of a part when drawn back, or towards the center of the body. [1913 Webster]