retreat

verb
UK: /rɪˈtriːt/
US: /rɪˈtriːt/

  1. To move away from an enemy or something dangerous.

    1. The army had to retreat because they were losing the battle. [ ] [ ]
    2. When he saw the bear, he decided to retreat slowly and quietly from the area. [ ] [ ]

  2. To withdraw or go to a quiet place, often for rest or privacy.

    1. I like to retreat to my bedroom when I need some time alone. [ ] [ ]
    2. After a long week at work, many people retreat to the countryside for peace. [ ] [ ]

  3. To change an opinion or promise.

    1. The company had to retreat from its original plan due to lack of funds. [ ] [ ]
    2. The politician was forced to retreat from his earlier statement on the issue. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

withdraw back off recoil asylum hideaway escape recede
retreat noun

  1. The act of moving away from an enemy or something dangerous.

    1. The retreat was disorganized and many soldiers were captured. [ ] [ ]
    2. The general ordered a retreat to avoid further losses in the battle. [ ] [ ]

  2. A quiet or private place where someone can go to relax or be alone.

    1. The cabin in the woods is a perfect retreat from the city. [ ] [ ]
    2. Many monasteries offer a retreat for people seeking spiritual renewal. [ ] [ ]

  3. An organized event for people to relax, meditate, or learn together.

    1. We are going on a yoga retreat next month to get away from stress. [ ] [ ]
    2. She attended a silent retreat to focus on her mental and emotional well-being. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "retreat" in English means: To move away from an enemy or something dangerous., To withdraw or go to a quiet place, often for rest or privacy., To change an opinion or promise..

The phonetic transcription of "retreat" is /rɪˈtriːt/ in British English and /rɪˈtriːt/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "retreat": withdraw, back off, recoil, asylum, hideaway, escape, recede.

Example usage of "retreat": "The army had to retreat because they were losing the battle.". More examples on the page.