Meaning & Definition of word "Withdraw"

Withdraw

/wɪðˈdrɔː/

verb:

  • 1. To take back or remove something from a particular place or situation.
    • Example: She decided to withdraw her application from the job offer.
  • 2. To retreat or move back from a position or situation.
    • Example: The army was forced to withdraw after heavy losses.
  • 3. To take money out of a bank account.
    • Example: He went to the ATM to withdraw some cash.
  • 4. To cease to participate in an activity or group.
    • Example: He chose to withdraw from the competition due to personal reasons.
  • 5. To remove oneself from social interaction.
    • Example: After the argument, she felt the need to withdraw from her friends and spend some time alone.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English 'wiþdragan', from 'wiþ' meaning against + 'dragan' meaning to draw.

Common Phrases and Expressions

withdraw into oneself:

To become reserved or introverted.

withdrawal symptoms:

Physical or mental symptoms that occur after stopping or reducing the intake of a substance.

withdraw funds:

To take money from an account.

withdraw a complaint:

To take back a formal expression of dissatisfaction.

Related Words

withdrawing:

The act of taking back or removing oneself.

withdrawal:

The process of ceasing to participate or to take back something.

Slang Meanings of withdraw

Meaning: Dip out

Example Sentence: He decided to dip out of the party early.

Meaning: Peace out

Example Sentence: I’m going to peace out and head home.