Retreat

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -iːt

Origin

From Middle English retret, from Old French retrait or retret (to draw back), from Latin retrahere (retract).

Full definition of retreat

Noun

1. The act of pulling back or withdrawing, as from something dangerous, or unpleasant.
• ShakespeareIn a retreat he outruns any lackey.
2. The act of reversing direction and receding from a forward position.
3. A peaceful, quiet place affording privacy or security.
• L'EstrangeHe built his son a house of pleasure, and spared no cost to make a delicious retreat.
• DrydenThat pleasing shade they sought, a soft retreat
  From sudden April showers, a shelter from the heat.
4. A period of retirement, seclusion, or solitude.
5. A period of meditation, prayer or study.
6. Withdrawal by military force from a dangerous position or from enemy attack.
7. A signal for a military withdrawal.
8. A bugle call or drumbeat signaling the lowering of the flag at sunset, as on a military base.
9. A military ceremony to lower the flag.
10. (chess) The move of a piece from a threatened position.

Verb

1. To withdraw military forces.

Anagrams

• treater
• tree rat