Retreat

Definition

Retreat can refer to a quiet or secluded place where one can rest and relax, or the act of moving back or withdrawing, often from something hazardous or unpleasant.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈtriːt/
• Respelling: ri-TREET (with "ri" as in "rid," and "TREET" as in "street")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈtriːt/
• Respelling: ri-TREET (similar to American English, with "ri" as in "rid," and "TREET" as in "street")

In both dialects, "retreat" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "TREET," following the short "ri" sound. The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, providing a clear and straightforward pronunciation.

Etymology

The word "retreat" stems from the Old French word "retret" or "retirer," which means to draw back. It later assimilated into Middle English as "retreten."

Derivatives

• Retreater
• Retreating
• Retreatist
• Retreatment
• Unretreated

Synonyms

• Withdrawal
• Pullback
• Sanctuary

Antonyms

• Advance
• Approach
• Confrontation

Usage

"Retreat" can refer to either a physical place of peace and quiet, or an action where individuals or groups withdraw from a particular situation, often to a safer position. It's a term often used in military, spiritual, and general contexts.

Related Terms

• Withdrawal
• Seclusion
• Hermitage
• Sanctuary
• Haven

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Place of Quiet or Rest: A place one can go to find quiet, rest, and solitude, often used for relaxation or spiritual reflection.‍
• Example: The monastery serves as a retreat for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

• Military Withdrawal: The act of pulling back forces from an enemy or from a dangerous situation.‍
• Example: The general ordered a retreat when the enemy's reinforcements arrived.

Verb

• Withdraw: To pull back or move away from a place or situation, especially to avoid something dangerous or unpleasant.‍
• Example: The troops were forced to retreat under heavy enemy fire.

• Recede: To go or move back from a previous position.‍
• Example: The floodwaters began to retreat after the rain stopped.

• Seclude Oneself: To go to a quiet or secluded place.‍
• Example: She decided to retreat to her country house for a few days of rest and relaxation.