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1 to move away from the enemy after being defeated in battle [≠ advance]: 
The rebels retreated to the mountains.They were attacked and forced to retreat.
army
PMThe rebels retreated to the mountains.They were attacked and forced to retreat.2
move back
writtena) to move away from someone or something : He saw her and retreated, too shy to speak to her.
He saw her and retreated, too shy to speak to her. retreat to/from/into etc Perry lit the fuse and retreated to a safe distance. It was not a conscious choice to retreat from public life.
Perry lit the fuse and retreated to a safe distance.It was not a conscious choice to retreat from public life.b) if an area of water, snow, or land retreats, it gradually gets smaller : The flood waters are slowly retreating.
The flood waters are slowly retreating.3 to decide not to do something you were planning to do, because it was unpopular or too difficult
change your mind
written4 to go away to a place that is quiet or safe
quiet place
5 to ignore what is happening around you and give all your attention to your private thoughts
retreat into yourself/your shell/fantasy etc
6 if shares etc retreat, their value falls to a lower level
