drew back

VERB

retract from position

Synonyms

WEAK

deduct discount pull back recede recoil reel in retreat sheathe shrink start back subtract take away withdraw

Antonyms

WEAK

forge go forward start

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Daniel-Hoste drew back from friends, concocting excuses to avoid meals out unless a friend offered to pay.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

He's most famous for his best-selling medical diaries, which drew back the curtain on the tough realities of being a doctor.

From BBC • Oct. 8, 2023

As Edward James Olmos weaved his way along the sidewalk past Warner Bros. studios on Friday morning, he drew back pats, handshakes, shrieks of pleasure and smiles of recognition every few feet.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 18, 2023

At Twitter, Mr. Musk drew back the curtain on what the company’s executives did in 2020 by linking to a lengthy Twitter thread by independent journalist Matt Taibbi.

From Washington Times • Dec. 4, 2022

Pet released her and drew back a foot or two, watching her as she composed herself.

From "Pet" by Akwaeke Emezi