retrenchment

noun

re·​trench·​ment ri-ˈtrench-mənt How to pronounce retrenchment (audio)
Synonyms of retrenchmentnext
: reduction, curtailment
specifically : a cutting of expenses

Examples of retrenchment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While this trend signals mounting pressure across financing conditions, analysts note that a modest retrenchment in market risk exposure represents a healthy calibration, serving as a buffer to mitigate concentrated risk spillovers. — CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026 The exit of Seán McGirr after three years at McQueen comes amid a substantial retrenchment of the business involving layoffs and store closures. — Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 Given that the United States keeps getting mired in errant conflicts, Congress urgently needs to reassert its constitutional obligation to approve acts of war and oversee retrenchment. — Charles Kupchan, Foreign Affairs, 19 Oct. 2026 But as the retrenchment took hold, studies found that the English immersion approach did not improve academic outcomes. — Kate Sequeira, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for retrenchment

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1600, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of retrenchment was circa 1600

Rhymes for retrenchment

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Browse Nearby Words

retrench
retrenchment
retrg
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Cite this Entry

“Retrenchment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrenchment. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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