retreatn.[F. retraite, fr. retraire to withdraw, L. retrahere; pref. re- re- + trahere to draw. See Trace, and cf. Retract, Retrace.]1. The act of retiring or withdrawing one's self, especially from what is dangerous or disagreeable.()In a retreat he otruns any lackey. (Shak.)2. The place to which anyone retires; a place or privacy or safety; a refuge; an asylum.()He built his son a house of pleasure, and spared no cost to make a delicious retreat. (L'Estrange.)That pleasing shade they sought, a soft retreat
From sudden April showers, a shelter from the heat. (Dryden.)3. (Mil. & Naval.) The retiring of an army or body of men from the face of an enemy, or from any ground occupied to a greater distance from the enemy, or from an advanced position.()()4. (Eccl.) A special season of solitude and silence to engage in religious exercises.()()v. i. To make a retreat; to retire from any position or place; to withdraw; as, the defeated army retreated from the field.()The rapid currents drive
Towards the retreating sea their furious tide. (Milton.)