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
Even if Gilead and its supporters are able to insure equitable access, the U.S government’s retreat from the fight against H.I.V. and AIDS will present new challenges and new infections. Jon Cohen, New Yorker, 24 June 2025 Other options include NoMad London, which has transformed the historic Bow Street Magistrates Court into a true Covent Garden retreat, with rooms arranged around a leafy atrium. Emma John, AFAR Media, 24 June 2025
Verb
Some will retreat from public life, spurning those closest to them in favor of an imaginary narrative woven with these programs. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 22 June 2025 Energy costs reinforced the downward pressure on overall goods pricing, declining 1% monthly as gasoline prices retreated. Kara Dennison, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for retreat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retreat
Noun
  • According to a legislative staff analysis, $11.2 billion would remain in the rainy day fund after withdrawals and the Special Fund for Economic Uncertainties would hold $4.5 billion.
    Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2025
  • There are prescribed baths with kosher salt or vinegar, and a general withdrawal from technology.
    Ellen O'Connell Whittet June 25, Literary Hub, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Islands can also act as refuges for forms of life that have gone extinct elsewhere, respites for creatures that swim, raft and even walk to the landmasses.
    Riley Black, Smithsonian Magazine, 25 June 2025
  • Then there’s Ada who has used her newfound position to turn the Brook household into a refuge for causes like temperance, while Agnes looks on horrified.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has urged Tehran to allow the agency to inspect the sites, but Iran is yet to agree, and has threatened to withdraw cooperation with the watchdog.
    Claire Cameron, semafor.com, 24 June 2025
  • Israel is under pressure from its own to withdraw from Gaza over humanitarian concerns.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • Simmons is then accused of carjacking a vehicle from someone who was at the medical facility and fleeing the scene.
    Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 1 July 2025
  • The brothers ran, but Brown was fatally wounded, and witnesses described seeing a pickup truck fleeing the scene.
    Grant Lancaster, Arkansas Online, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • Welch spent his retirement in glory; Kozlowski spent six years in jail.
    Eli Amdur, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Along with the 1-800 wait time information, the Social Security metrics page also included processing time for retirement, survivor, and Medicare benefits.
    Sarah D. Wire, USA Today, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • If the sky turns ominous and thunder can be heard, find a secure place for shelter.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 27 June 2025
  • Stocking your storm shelter with non-perishable food items and plenty of water is essential.
    Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 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
  • The administration eventually flew him back, but immediately detained him on criminal charges.
    Sergio Martínez-Beltrán, NPR, 25 June 2025
  • There are still questions about the cornerback position and the pass rush, but second-year defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley will have his unit flying around the field making plays.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Retreat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retreat. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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