retrenchment

noun

re·​trench·​ment ri-ˈtrench-mənt How to pronounce retrenchment (audio)
: 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.
The benefit of the doubt remains with the bullish overall trend, even while the case for a tactical pause or retrenchment builds. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 26 July 2025 What stands out now is how early and broadly this retrenchment is happening. Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025 The United States’ global retrenchment on LGBTQ issues also creates an opening for local activists to push back on claims in many countries that such rights are foreign or neocolonial impositions. Ari Shaw, Foreign Affairs, 17 July 2025 The cuts have been described as one of the largest retrenchments in the federal safety net in a generation. Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 6 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Retrenchment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrenchment. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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