What is recant definition?

The word recant refers to the act of withdrawing or renouncing a previous statement, belief, or commitment. It can also refer to retracting testimony given under oath, particularly in a legal proceeding. Recanting is often associated with a change in beliefs or a shift in perspective, and can have serious consequences for the individual involved, particularly if the statement or testimony being recanted was used as evidence in a criminal case. Recanting may also be viewed as a betrayal of trust, particularly in cases where the statement or testimony was given in confidence or on behalf of others.