Definition

A person who moves back or withdraws from a situation, often for safety or to avoid conflict.

Example

The retreater found a quiet place in the mountains to reflect and recharge.

Conversation

Have you ever felt like a total retreater in social situations?

Absolutely! Sometimes I just want to hide away and avoid interaction.

Right? It can be tough to be around so many people.

Yeah, but it's nice to know we're not alone in feeling like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retreater → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "treat" (from Old French *traiter*, meaning to handle or deal with). The suffix "-er" indicates a person who performs an action. Thus, a retreater is a person who withdraws or goes back from a situation.

Memory Tip

Think of someone going 'back' ('re-') to 'handle' or 'deal with' something ('traiter') — that's why a retreater is someone who withdraws.

Visually Confused Words