retreat 1 of 2

1
as in withdrawal
an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable we made a strategic retreat when we realized that we were outnumbered

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2

retreat

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb retreat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of retreat are back, recede, and retract. While all these words mean "to move backward," retreat implies withdrawal from a point or position reached.

retreating soldiers

When is back a more appropriate choice than retreat?

The words back and retreat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, back is used with up, down, out, or off to refer to any retrograde motion.

backed off on the throttle

When would recede be a good substitute for retreat?

While the synonyms recede and retreat are close in meaning, recede implies a gradual withdrawing from a forward or high fixed point in time or space.

the flood waters gradually receded

When could retract be used to replace retreat?

The words retract and retreat can be used in similar contexts, but retract implies drawing back from an extended position.

a cat retracting its claws

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of retreat
Noun
The seven-acre estate first opened its doors back in 1918; since then, its 90 rooms have play host to many an Old Hollywood star, including Clark Gable, Hedy Lamarr, and Carole Lombard, as the ultimate secluded retreat, the Los Angeles Times reported. Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 9 July 2025 The bar, a popular feature on Virgin’s aircraft, will be phased out on the 787s by 2030 with the addition of retreat suites, Weiss said. Danny Bakst, Fortune, 9 July 2025
Verb
In addition, the royal family usually retreats to Balmoral Castle, their Scottish estate, in the summer. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 7 July 2025 The stock market retreated on Monday as the U.S. announced new tariff rates on key trading partners. Jesse Pound, CNBC, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for retreat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retreat
Noun
  • After his withdrawal in Connecticut, Hovland headed home to Norway for a break and to play in his best friend Kevin Wright's tournament, the Wright Invitational at Kragerø Golf & Resort, on June 28.
    Savannah Leigh Richardson, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 July 2025
  • Hamas has been seeking guarantees that the initial truce would lead to a total end to the war and withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
    CBS News, CBS News, 5 July 2025
Noun
  • It’s designed to be a small refuge, a safe place with no strings attached in hopes of gaining trust and offering options.
    Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 July 2025
  • Before the 1950s, the places where Houston’s fledgling LGBTQ+ community found refuge were scattered.
    Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 7 July 2025
Verb
  • The result will be an increase in preying on immigrants by the criminal element: robbery, protection scams, sweatshop labor and human trafficking, as the immigrant community withdraws from reliance on no-longer-safe court systems.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 4 July 2025
  • The traffic receded as Chicago withdrew into the distance behind me on Interstate 90.
    Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 4 July 2025
Verb
  • In July 1987, flooding on the Guadalupe River in Kerr County forced hundreds of people to flee the area.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 12 July 2025
  • Some thought the noises were gunfire, which prompted large groups to flee the park.
    Cameron Knight, The Enquirer, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • Consider exploring plan design options and retirement savings vehicles, such as a cash balance pension plan or individual 401(k).
    Kristin McKenna, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • What makes this level of dedication all the more remarkable is that Dodds is 78, an age when most of his peers are enjoying the fruits of retirement.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • If finding indoor shelter is not an option: Avoid open fields, hill peaks, or ridge tops.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2025
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT Updated July 8, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 July 2025
Verb
  • For Gen Z, that might mean skipping the $28 lunch today—and retiring with $800,000 tomorrow.
    Jim Edwards, Fortune, 1 July 2025
  • Rucker played his entire nine-season NFL career with the Panthers before retiring in 2008.
    Sydney Sasser, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • Passengers flying in the United States at certain airports are no longer required to take off their shoes when going through security lines, according to news outlets including CBS News and The New York Times on Monday.
    Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • After his strike flew past U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese, Jimenez briefly celebrated with his teammates before sitting on the turf at NRG Stadium, pulling out a Mexico jersey with Jota’s name and number (#20), and mimicking playing a video game.
    Martin Rogers, New York Times, 7 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Retreat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retreat. Accessed 17 Jul. 2025.

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