noun

1. a going back or backward; withdrawal in the face of opposition or from a dangerous or unpleasant situation
2. withdrawal to a safe or private place
3. a safe, quiet, or secluded place
4. an organized group withdrawal from regular activities, as for religious contemplation, the development of closer relationships, etc.
5. a residential institution for the care of the aged, mentally ill, etc.
6. Mil.
   1. the withdrawal of troops, ships, etc. from a position, esp. when forced by enemy attack
   2. a signal for such a withdrawal
   3. a signal given by bugle or drum at sunset for lowering the national flag
   4. the ceremony at which this is done

Etymology: ME retret < OFr retraite < pp. of retraire, to draw back < L retrahere: see retract

intransitive verb

1. to withdraw; make a retreat
2. to slope backward

Etymology: ME retreten

transitive verb

1. to lead or draw back
2. Chess to withdraw (a piece), as from a dangerous position