retreat
|re-treat|
B2
/rɪˈtriːt/
withdrawal or refuge
Etymology
Etymology Information
'retreat' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'retret,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'trait' meant 'drawn.'
Historical Evolution
'retret' transformed into the Middle English word 'retret,' and eventually became the modern English word 'retreat.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to draw back,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'withdrawal' and 'place of refuge.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a place of privacy or safety; a refuge.
The cabin in the woods served as a peaceful retreat.
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Noun 2
the act of withdrawing, especially from something dangerous or unpleasant.
The army's retreat was strategic to avoid further losses.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35