treatise

noun

trea·​tise ˈtrē-təs 

also -təz

1

: a systematic exposition or argument in writing including a methodical discussion of the facts and principles involved and conclusions reached

a treatise on higher education

2

obsolete : account, tale

Examples of treatise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Well, that’s my entire treatise on my chronic disease. —Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 10 June 2026

In the beginning, there was bread The book’s centerpiece chapters on starters, mains and sweets are bookended on one side by a treatise on how to make and store breadcrumbs of various sizes, with an under-duress sub-section about how to buy breadcrumbs. —Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 8 June 2026

Lyubomirsky, a longtime researcher in the field of happiness, together with Harry Reis, a dean’s professor in the University of Rochester’s department of psychology, have written a treatise on how to bring more compassion, acceptance and vulnerability to our relationships. —Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026

The ancient prose treatise on the subject of pleasure (kama) provides a brief discussion of men of a third nature (tritiya prakriti) who take the form of women or men. —Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tretis, from Anglo-French tretiz, alteration of tretez, traitet, from Medieval Latin tractatus, from Latin tractare to treat, handle

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for treatise

• fetus
• foetus
• meatus
• thetis
• caritas
• mellitus
• cellulitis
• margaritas
• tonsillitis

Kids Definition

treatise

noun

trea·​tise ˈtrēt-əs 

: a book or article examining a subject carefully and completely