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.
retreating
-
present participleof retreat.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Ice typically builds up throughout the long, dark winter, reaching its greatest extent in March before retreating during the warmer months to a September minimum.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 15, 2026
Applied Materials stock is retreating back toward a key technical level.
From Barron's ● Oct. 13, 2026
The German 10-year Bund yield fell 3.7 basis points to 3.437%, while the French 10-year OAT slightly outperformed, with its yield retreating 5 basis points to 4.850%.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2026
Another witness said Eritrean forces appeared to be retreating north after the strikes, AFP reported.
From BBC ● Oct. 9, 2026
Newfound anger boiled her blood as she watched their retreating backs and remembered yet another piece of the night before.
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
