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

Thomas Ady, the 17th century author of a skeptical treatise on witchcraft A Candle in the Dark appears to refer to Vincent without naming him directly. —Scott Neuman, NPR, 1 Oct. 2025

The book isn’t a winding memoir or a political treatise, and Harris doesn’t disclose any future plans. —Chris Megerian, Fortune, 19 Sep. 2025

Her previous record, American Life, was a folktronica treatise on the state of America post-9/11 that was, at the time, her worst-selling album, so the dance music of Confessions was already a return to form. —Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2025

Likewise, writing a vast treatise is bound to confound the AI. —Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 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