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

In June 2026 researchers used micro-CT scanning technology to read one such fragile scroll, without ever needing to unroll it, revealing a philosophical treatise on ethics. — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Aug. 2026

Who better to churn out a 30-minute treatise on the art of image-making? — Caryn Ganz, Rolling Stone, 23 July 2026

But the sections that can be read between gaps where the surface is lost point to a philosophical treatise on ethics, arts and human nature. — Leslie Katz, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

The text is a philosophical treatise on ethics and human moral progress, and the final column revealed the name Aristocreon, a nephew and disciple of the Stoic philosopher Chrysippus. — ArsTechnica, 30 June 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