RETREAT Synonyms: 139 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

retreat 1 of 2

noun

ri-ˈtrēt

Definition of retreat next

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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in refuge

something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger her bedroom served as a retreat from the frequent arguing between her parents the abandoned cabin was a welcome retreat from the storm

Synonyms & Similar Words

retreat

2 of 2

verb

as in to withdraw

to move back or away (as from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable) we retreated to the safety of the cellar at the first sign of the tornado

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to flee

to hasten away from something dangerous or frightening the untried soldiers retreated in humiliating disarray almost as soon as the enemy's onslaught began

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Scott, head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, told donors at a Palm Beach, Florida, retreat that the Republican Party should prepare for the most expensive race in its history, an attendee told Politico. —

Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 10 Feb. 2025 The retreat pop-ups include a wellness workshop led by Highland Project mindfulness practitioners, as well as opportunities for attendees to foster true connections with one another. —

Jasmine Browley, Essence, 4 Feb. 2025

Verb

The initiative follows widespread backlash against major retailers and corporations accused of retreating from DEI commitments after the Trump administration took steps to dismantle federal DEI programs. —

Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025 As some businesses retreat from diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives amid President Donald Trump’s actions to eliminate federal DEI programs, consumers are protesting by calling for a 24-hour spending blackout this month. —

Rebecca Morin, USA TODAY, 12 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for retreat

Recent Examples of Synonyms for retreat

Noun

As well as the release of 16 hostages so far, phase one has seen the entry of more humanitarian aid and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from parts of Gaza.

— Lauren Kent, CNN, 11 Feb. 2025
The next stage of the deal is supposed to see additional hostages released for prisoners and a further withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

— Kat Lonsdorf, NPR, 10 Feb. 2025