plural treatments
1
: the way that you think of and act toward someone or something
We don't deserve such rude treatment. [=we don't deserve to be treated so rudely]
The principal's daughter received special/preferential treatment from teachers. [=teachers were kinder to and less strict with the principal's daughter than with other students]
We want to ensure equal treatment for everyone.
The law requires humane treatment of prisoners.
2
a
: the way that you deal with or discuss a subject
It's a complicated issue that requires careful treatment.
A five-minute news report on the subject does not allow for depth of treatment. [=does not allow the subject to be dealt with in a way that is complete, thorough, etc.]
The book's treatment of this important issue is unimpressive.
b
: something that deals with or discusses a subject
Previous treatments of this topic have ignored some key issues.
an interesting treatment
3
: something that deals with a disease, injury, etc., in order to make someone feel better or become healthy again : medical care
The patient required immediate medical treatment.
She is receiving treatment for cancer.
a treatment facility [=a place where you can get medical care]
The drug has been approved as a treatment for AIDS.
cancer treatments
4
: something that you use or do to feel and look healthy or attractive
Mud is sometimes used as a skin treatment.
She went to a spa for a beauty treatment.
5
: a process in which a chemical or other substance is put on or in something in order to protect it, preserve it, clean it, etc.
A special treatment is used to kill bacteria in water.
This treatment will protect the wood from rotting.
The instruments are sterilized by treatment with alcohol.
a waste/sewage treatment plant
Cite this Entry
“Treatment.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/treatment. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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