— detractingly , adv. — detractor , n.
/di trakt"/ , v.i.
1. to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually fol. by from ).
v.t.
2. to draw away or divert; distract: to detract another's attention from more important issues.
3. Archaic. to take away (a part); abate: The dilapidated barn detracts charm from the landscape.
[ 1400-50; late ME ( detracter ) detractus drawn away (ptp. of detrahere ), equiv. to de- DE- + tractus drawn; see TRACT 1 ]