treatise

noun

trea·​tise ˈtrē-təs How to pronounce treatise (audio)
also -təz
Synonyms of treatise
1
: a systematic exposition or argument in writing including a methodical discussion of the facts and principles involved and conclusions reached
a treatise on higher education
2
obsolete : account, tale

Examples of treatise 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.
The film’s pick-me jabs at humor are frankly, flatly unfunny and grating, twisting the film at times into a perverse, almost self-aware treatise on tweeness. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 20 Oct. 2026 Numerous treatise writers began to insist that anyone who doubts the diabolical empowerment of women-as-witches is self-deluded and dangerous. — Literary Hub, 14 Oct. 2026 Released on September 29, this 352-page treatise—laden with evocative photography—was written by Eric Hendrikx and published by Artisan Books. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2026 Drawing on a variety of sources—from philosophical treatises to poems and popular jokes—this compact study shows how writers of the Roman era rendered animals, domestic and wild, as imperial subjects. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for treatise

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tretis, from Anglo-French tretiz, alteration of tretez, traitet, from Medieval Latin tractatus, from Latin tractare to treat, handle

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of treatise was in the 14th century

Rhymes for treatise

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Browse Nearby Words

treater
treatise
treatment
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

treatise

noun
trea·​tise ˈtrēt-əs How to pronounce treatise (audio)
: a book or article examining a subject carefully and completely

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