noun / verb
retreat
rih-TREET/rɪˈtriːt/
Withdrawal from an occupied position or ordinary activity.
The hikers retreat toward the sheltered cabin as the storm approaches.
Etymology
The pieces convey drawing back: a retreat was a step backward or an act of withdrawing. That physical movement also describes withdrawal from danger or ordinary activity.
In context
to guard against the victorious Allied cavalry in a desperate attempt to buy time for the army’s retreat. In Ramillies, the Franco-Bavarian troops began falling back in disorder
More examples
- The general orders a retreat before the enemy surrounds them.
- Under public pressure, the mayor retreats from her earlier promise.
- For Maya, an afternoon offline offers a retreat from daily demands.
Forms
retreat · retreats · retreated · retreating
Similar words
- withdrawal
- More neutral about whether leaving results from pressure or defeat.
- pullback
- Often emphasizes a tactical or temporary move away.