\Re*trac"tion\, 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.
2. The act of withdrawing something advanced, stated,
   claimed, or done; declaration of change of opinion;
   recantation.
         Other men's insatiable desire of revenge hath wholly
         beguiled both church and state of the benefit of all
         my either retractions or ?oncessions. --Eikon
                                               Basilike.
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.