To retreat is to move back or withdraw from a place, situation, or conflict, often because of danger or difficulty. As a noun, a retreat can be a quiet, safe place to rest or a planned time away for reflection or training.
From Old French *retret* 'a drawing back', from Latin *retrahere* 'to draw back', from *re-* 'back' + *trahere* 'to pull'. It was first used for armies pulling back from battle.
Retreat can be both defeat and wisdom—knowing when to step back can save you for a better moment. Modern 'retreats' turn this military withdrawal into a peaceful strategy: leaving the noise so you can return stronger.
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