Meaning of the word "draw off" in English

What does "draw off" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

draw off

US /drɔː ɔːf/
UK /drɔː ɔːf/

Phrasal Verb

1.

to remove liquid from something, especially by draining

Example:
•
You need to draw off the excess water from the pasta.
•
The nurse had to draw off some blood for the test.
2.

to divert or attract attention or resources away from something

Example:
•
The new project might draw off resources from existing ones.
•
His sudden illness helped to draw off suspicion from the others.