Retreat

English Meaning

The act of retiring or withdrawing one's self, especially from what is dangerous or disagreeable.

1. The act or process of withdrawing, especially from something hazardous, formidable, or unpleasant.
2. The process of going backward or receding from a position or condition gained.
3. A place affording peace, quiet, privacy, or security. See Synonyms at shelter.
4. A period of seclusion, retirement, or solitude.
5. A period of group withdrawal for prayer, meditation, or study: a religious retreat.
6. Withdrawal of a military force from a dangerous position or from an enemy attack.
7. The signal for such withdrawal.
8. A bugle call or drumbeat signaling the lowering of the flag at sunset, as on a military base.
9. The military ceremony of lowering the flag.
10. To fall or draw back; withdraw or retire. See Synonyms at recede1.
11. To slope backward.
12. Games To move (a chess piece) back.