Extract refers to a concentrated substance obtained from a larger material, often through processes like distillation or filtration. It is commonly used in cooking, where flavors from ingredients such as vanilla beans or herbs are concentrated into a liquid form, enhancing the taste of various dishes. In the context of data, extract refers to the process of retrieving specific information from a larger dataset or database. This is often the first step in data analysis, where relevant data is pulled out for further examination or processing, helping organizations make informed decisions based on the insights gained.