retreat
retreat Lexical Profile
retreat Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An act of moving back or withdrawing from a difficult, dangerous, or unfavorable situation.
"The sudden drop in market confidence prompted a rapid retreat by cautious investors."
A quiet, secluded, or safe place where one can go for rest, privacy, or relaxation.
"The small cabin in the mountains served as a peaceful weekend retreat for the writer."
An organized period of group withdrawal for prayer, meditation, study, or professional team-building away from everyday routines.
"The university department organized an annual faculty retreat to discuss curriculum reforms."
• verb
To move back or withdraw from a difficult, hazardous, or uncomfortable situation.
"When the summer heat became unbearable, the hikers decided to retreat to the shaded valley below."
To go to a quiet, private, or safe place in order to rest, reflect, or escape from stress.
"After hours of lively conversation with guests, he would often retreat to his study to read in silence."
To change one's decisions, plans, or promises because of opposition, criticism, or difficulty; to decline in value (of stocks or prices).
"Faced with strong public disapproval, the committee was forced to retreat from its initial proposal."
• Rhymes for retreat
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'retret' (a drawing back or place of refuge), from the past participle of 'retraire' (to draw back), which ultimately derives from Latin 'retrahere' (from 're-', meaning 'back', and 'trahere', meaning 'to draw or pull').
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.