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.
Well, that’s my entire treatise on my chronic disease. — Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 10 June 2026 But the sections that can be read between gaps where the surface is lost point to a philosophical treatise on ethics, arts and human nature. — Leslie Katz, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Physiognomic treatises reappeared in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, then took off in the eighteenth and nineteenth. — Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 This show is not a sociological treatise on the struggles of a contemporary American city. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 27 June 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

See All Rhymes for treatise

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 7 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on treatise

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for treatise

Nglish: Translation of treatise for Spanish Speakers

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