retreat
UK: rɪˈtriːt | US: rɪˈtriːt
n. 1. The act of withdrawing, especially from danger or confrontation.
n. 2. A quiet or secluded place for rest or privacy.
v. 1. To move back or withdraw, especially from a challenging situation.
retreat = re<back> + treat<draw/pull>
- re: A Latin prefix meaning "back" or "again."
- treat: Derived from Latin tractare ("to handle, drag, or draw"), which evolved into Old French traitier ("to pull, handle").
Etymology Origin:
The word "retreat" originates from the Latin retrahere ("to draw back"), combining re- (back) and trahere (to pull). It entered English via Old French retret, initially referring to a military withdrawal. Over time, it expanded to denote withdrawal in general and later a peaceful, secluded place—reflecting both physical and metaphorical "drawing back."
The soldiers were ordered to retreat after heavy enemy fire.
She booked a weekend retreat in the mountains to relax.
The company decided to retreat from the controversial policy.
Meditation retreats help people disconnect from daily stress.
As winter approached, the birds began their retreat south.