The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Recant \Re*cant"\ (r[-e]*k[a^]nt"), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   Recanted; p. pr. & vb. n. Recanting.] [L. recantare,
   recantatum, to recall, recant; pref. re- re- + cantare to
   sing, to sound. See 3d Cant, Chant.]
   To withdraw or repudiate formally and publicly (opinions
   formerly expressed); to contradict, as a former declaration;
   to take back openly; to retract; to recall.
   [1913 Webster]

         How soon . . . ease would recant
         Vows made in pain, as violent and void!  --Milton.
   [1913 Webster]

   Syn: To retract; recall; revoke; abjure; disown; disavow. See
        Renounce.
        [1913 Webster]