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

Some of the earliest respect for the power of observation comes from the ancient Indus Valley, where close astronomical observations and unit measurements were required for ritual, and these traditions bore fruit in early treatises on astronomy, linguistics, and logic. —Literary Hub, 19 Nov. 2025

Whereas the play only obliquely references the character’s successful new novel, this version presents Eileen’s manuscript — co-written with her mousy lover Thea (Imogen Potts), a former schoolmate of Hedda’s — as a revelatory treatise on the future of human sexuality. —Abby Monteil, Them., 28 Oct. 2025

For hundreds of years, physicians and scientists wrote treatises on its health benefits. —Aleksandra Crapanzano, The Atlantic, 27 Oct. 2025

The ancient Romans and Greeks never really wrote treatises about how to lie well. —JSTOR Daily, 16 Oct. 2025

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
• civitas
• cellulitis
• margaritas
• tonsillitis

Kids Definition

treatise

noun

trea·​tise ˈtrēt-əs 

: a book or article examining a subject carefully and completely