educe

verb

i-ˈdüs How to pronounce educe (audio)
Definition of educenext
as in to elicit
to draw out (something hidden, latent, or reserved) the gift of a puppy finally educed a response from the shy boy

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb educe contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of educe are elicit, evoke, extort, and extract. While all these words mean "to draw out something hidden, latent, or reserved," educe implies the bringing out of something potential or latent.

educed order out of chaos

In what contexts can elicit take the place of educe?

The meanings of elicit and educe largely overlap; however, elicit usually implies some effort or skill in drawing forth a response.

careful questioning elicited the truth

When can evoke be used instead of educe?

The words evoke and educe are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, evoke implies a strong stimulus that arouses an emotion or an interest or recalls an image or memory.

a song that evokes warm memories

When is it sensible to use extort instead of educe?

The synonyms extort and educe are sometimes interchangeable, but extort suggests a wringing or wresting from one who resists strongly.

extorted their cooperation by threatening to inform

When would extract be a good substitute for educe?

The words extract and educe can be used in similar contexts, but extract implies the use of force or pressure in obtaining answers or information.

extracted a confession from him

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for educe
  1. elicit
  2. evoke
  3. inspire
Verb
  • Every question elicits a thoughtful pause and an even more thoughtful answer.
    — Damien Scott, Billboard, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Some studies use higher doses to elicit health benefits.10 Ketone salts: A form of ketones that combines ketone acids with sodium or other electrolytes to enhance their effectiveness.
    — Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of elicit
Verb
  • Vacheron upsized the case size to 42mm in keeping with that era’s taste in larger watches, and gave the dials a subtle texture that further evoked the brand’s longtime symbol.
    — Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 18 Mar. 2025
  • The decor evokes Gaudi’s Barcelona and the space is big by Hong Kong standards, featuring a terrace overlooking Victoria Harbour.
    — Abid Rahman, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of evoke
Verb
  • Employees expect to understand why an assignment is given and inspired to do the right thing, rather than follow instructions blindly.
    — Martin Zwilling, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • This year, for the first time in 44 years, the designers will also be creating botanical art inspired by architecture.
    — Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Mar. 2025
Definition of inspire
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Educe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/educe. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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