Treat

Definition

Treat is a verb meaning to act or behave in a specified way toward someone or something, to manage or deal with, or to provide medical care. As a noun, it refers to an item or event that provides enjoyment or pleasure.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /triːt/
• Respelling: TREET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /triːt/
• Respelling: TREET

Etymology

The word "treat" originates from Middle English "tretien," from Old French "traitier," and Latin "tractare," meaning "to handle or manage." Its root "tract-" refers to "pulling" or "handling."

Derivatives

• Treatment (noun)
• Treatable (adjective)
• Treater (noun)
• Mistreat (verb)
• Retreat (verb/noun)

Synonyms

• Handle
• Manage
• Care for

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Mistreat
• Ignore

Usage

The verb "treat" is used to describe actions involving management or care: "Doctors treat patients with antibiotics." As a noun, it refers to something delightful: "Ice cream was a special treat for the children."

Related Terms

• Care: The process of providing attention or management.
• Handle: To manage or deal with a situation or object.
• Therapy: Treatment provided to relieve or heal a condition.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To behave toward someone in a particular way: Refers to interpersonal conduct.
  • Example: "He always treats his colleagues with respect."
• To deal with or manage a situation: Refers to handling or addressing something.
  • Example: "The government plans to treat the issue as a priority."
• To provide medical care: Refers to actions taken to heal or relieve an ailment.
  • Example: "The doctor treated her for a severe allergic reaction."
• To entertain or provide enjoyment: Refers to offering something pleasurable.
  • Example: "He treated her to a nice dinner."

Noun

• Something enjoyable or special: Refers to an item or event providing pleasure or reward.
  • Example: "The birthday cake was a real treat."