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 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

This combined approach imbued his treatise with both a remarkable precision and a notable breadth of vision. —Literary Hub, 27 May 2026

Anthropic co-founder Christopher Olah was among those who attended the Vatican presentation that announced the treatise’s release. —Chris Stokel-Walker, Scientific American, 26 May 2026

In his first encyclical, Pope Leo XIV put forth a defense of human dignity in the era of AI, delivering a far-ranging treatise on the morality of technology that included a dramatic plea for guardrails to ensure that artificial intelligence eases — rather than exacerbates — inequality and poverty. —Anthony Faiola, Washington Post, 25 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