verb (used with object)
- to take away, as from a sum or amount: Once you deduct your expenses, there is nothing left.
verb (used without object)
- detract; abate (usually followed by from): The rocky soil deducts from the value of his property.
verb
- (tr) to take away or subtract (a number, quantity, part, etc)income tax is deducted from one’s wages
early 15c., from Latin deductus, past participle of deducere “lead down, bring away;” see deduce, with which it formerly was interchangeable. Technically, deduct refers to taking away portions or amounts; subtract to taking away numbers. Related: Deducted; deducting.