retreat
noun
the forced or strategic withdrawal of an army or an armed force before an enemy, or the withdrawing of a naval force from action.
have retreated
-
present perfectof retreat.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
With mortgage rates in the 6% to 7% range over the past few years, buyers have retreated.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 14, 2026
Benchmark oil prices have retreated following the peace agreement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 19, 2026
However, prices have retreated 12% from a record closing high of $5,354.80 an ounce on Jan. 29, according to Dow Jones Market Data.
From Barron's ● Apr. 23, 2026
However, since the announcement of a temporary ceasefire earlier this month oil prices have retreated back below the $100 mark.
From BBC ● Apr. 17, 2026
By the afternoon before the mayor's dinner party, Katherine's anxiety seems to have retreated into the background as well, and she is beside herself with excitement.
From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland
