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Retreated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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retreated

[rษชหˆtriหtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military action

Retreated refers to the act of withdrawing from a position, especially in the context of military forces moving away from an enemy. It can also be used in non-military contexts to describe someone who moves back or away from a challenging situation or confrontation. Retreating is often considered a strategic decision when facing unfavorable circumstances. The term can imply a sense of regrouping or reconsideration of tactics rather than complete defeat.

Synonyms

backed away, receded, retired, withdrew.

Examples of usage

  • The army retreated to safer ground.
  • After realizing the truth, she retreated from the confrontation.
  • The soldiers were ordered to retreat swiftly.
  • Seeing the storm approaching, they retreated indoors.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • Throughout history, armies have retreated during battles to regroup or find safety, shaping many conflicts.
  • In the context of exploration, many explorers retreated in the face of insurmountable natural obstacles.

Psychology

  • Retreating can be a psychological response to stress or anxiety, allowing individuals time to recuperate.
  • It's also a strategy in conflict resolution, where parties might retreat from confrontation to foster dialogue.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, heroes often retreat to gather their strength before returning to face challenges bravely.
  • Quotes about retreating in popular films frequently emphasize the importance of strategic withdrawal over foolish bravery.

Nature

  • Certain animal species, like deer, retreat to hidden spots to escape predators.
  • In ecology, retreat can refer to glaciers pulling back due to climate change, revealing landscapes previously covered by ice.

Origin of 'retreated'

Main points about word origin

  • The origin of the word traces back to the Latin 'retractare', which means to pull back.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, connecting the idea of withdrawal.

The word 'retreat' comes from the Old French 'retrait', which means 'a withdrawing'. This itself can be traced back to the Latin 'retrahere', meaning 'to draw back'. The usage of the term has evolved over the centuries but has maintained its core meaning of withdrawing or pulling back. Originally associated with military maneuvers, the term began to encompass personal and social contexts as well, referring to times when individuals or groups withdraw for reflection, rest, or solitude. In contemporary usage, 'retreat' can be both a physical act and a metaphor, often associated with the need for self-care or strategic planning. As society has modernized, the implications of the word have broadened, reflecting a wide range of scenarios where retreating can be seen as a form of wisdom rather than a mere act of cowardice.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,608, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.