Meaning & Definition of word "Withdrawal"

Withdrawal

/wɪðˈdrɔːəl/

noun:

  • 1. the act of taking back or removing something.
    • Example: The bank notified her of the withdrawal she made from her savings account.
  • 2. the process of ceasing to participate in an activity or program, often resulting in the removal from it.
    • Example: His withdrawal from the competition surprised everyone.
  • 3. the physical or psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops taking a substance they are dependent on.
    • Example: He experienced severe withdrawal symptoms after stopping the medication.
  • 4. the act of retreating or pulling back from a position or situation.
    • Example: The army's withdrawal from the battlefield was carefully planned.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'withdrawen', meaning to pull back or away.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bank withdrawal:

The act of taking money out of a bank account.

withdrawal symptom:

A medical condition experienced when one stops using a drug they are dependent on.

military withdrawal:

The process by which military forces leave a combat area.

Related Words

withdraw:

To take back or remove something from a location.

withdrawn:

Describing someone or something that is detached or reserved.

Slang Meanings of withdrawal

Meaning: Cold turkey

Example Sentence: Quitting drugs cold turkey can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.

Meaning: Going off the rails

Example Sentence: He was doing fine until he went off the rails, leading to major withdrawal issues.