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

The treatise reflects a time when Dara was translating Hindu texts and exploring their connections with Islamic mystical ideas. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Apr. 2026

Skyhorse has since published a dozen or so books by Kennedy, including a memoir and several more anti-vaccine treatises. —Tom Bartlett, The Atlantic, 5 Apr. 2026

On another level, the novel almost resembles a philosophical treatise celebrating the power of human reason. —Tim Brinkhof, Big Think, 24 Mar. 2026

The treatise, a ninth-century copy of Archimedes’ work on the volume of spheres, was lost during World War I. —Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 13 Mar. 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
• civitas
• cellulitis
• margaritas
• tonsillitis

Kids Definition

treatise

noun

trea·​tise ˈtrēt-əs 

: a book or article examining a subject carefully and completely