The meaning of DETRACT is to diminish the importance, value, or effectiveness of something —often used with from. How to use detract in a sentence.

verb (used with object) to draw away or divert; distract. to detract another's attention from more important issues. Archaic. to take away (a part); abate. The dilapidated barn detracts charm from the …

Definition of detract verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

detract to take away a part of the quality, value, or reputation: Don’t detract from the value of his remarks.

If one thing detracts from another, it makes it seem less good or impressive. The publicity could detract from our election campaign.

Jun 29, 2025 · detract (third-person singular simple present detracts, present participle detracting, simple past and past participle detracted) (intransitive) To take away; to withdraw or remove. quotations

Detract definition: To draw or take away; divert.