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, 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

An entire treatise of greatness for all the haters who ever attempted to doubt us, test us. —Literary Hub, 9 Mar. 2026

The novel is not a political treatise. —David Frum, The Atlantic, 4 Feb. 2026

The text consists of 10 treatises on architecture, engineering and urban planning, and is the oldest surviving work written on the subject. —Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 28 Jan. 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