Skip to main content

retreat — to move back or withdraw, especially from something dangerous or unpleasant

Part of speech: VERB

Definition: to move back or withdraw, especially from something dangerous or unpleasant

Pronunciation (IPA): /rɪˈtriːt/

Example Sentences

  • When mom found out about the broken vase, we decided to retreat to our rooms
  • The CEO announced a company retreat to a luxury resort
  • My cat always retreats under the bed when the vacuum cleaner comes out

retreat

VERB

[/rɪˈtriːt/]

to move back or withdraw, especially from something dangerous or unpleasant

The general orders a retreat as enemy forces overwhelm the front line.
💡 Concept

The general orders a retreat as enemy forces overwhelm the front line.

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/rɪˈtriːt/
🇬🇧 UK/rɪˈtriːt/

🌳Etymology

Prefixre--
Roottreat

Origin

From Old French 'retraite', derived from Latin 'retrahere' meaning 'to draw back'. The word combines the prefix 're-' (back) with 'trahere' (to draw or pull).

Breakdown

re- (back) + treat (from Latin trahere, to draw/pull) = retreat (to withdraw or move back)

🎵Rhyme

complete
defeat
repeat
compete

🔗Collocations

beat a retreat
strategic retreat
retreat from
spiritual retreat
company retreat
retreat into silence

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“When mom found out about the broken vase, we decided to retreat to our rooms”

“The CEO announced a company retreat to a luxury resort”

😄 Fun example

“My cat always retreats under the bed when the vacuum cleaner comes out”

“The government was forced to retreat from its original policy”

📚Related Words

Want to master 27,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.