Treat

/triːt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
an event or item that is enjoyable or special.
The ice cream was a real treat on a hot day.
a gift or reward given to someone.
She brought treats for the children at the party.
verb
to behave toward (someone) in a particular way.
She treated her guests with great hospitality.
to deal with (something) in a certain way.
He treated the subject with seriousness and respect.
to provide someone with something enjoyable or beneficial.
I decided to treat myself to a nice dinner after a long week.

Etymology

Middle English trete, from Old French traiter, from Latin tractare, frequentative of tractus, meaning to handle, pull or draw.

Common Phrases and Expressions

treat yourself
To indulge oneself in something enjoyable.
treat someone like
To conduct oneself towards someone in a specific manner.
it's a treat
Indicates that something is special or enjoyable.

Related Words

treatment
The manner in which someone is treated or a medical procedure.
treatable
Capable of being treated, especially in a medical context.
treatise
A written work dealing formally and systematically with a subject.

Slang Meanings

A fun event or thing, especially something unexpected.
That party was such a treat!
An act of generosity or kindness.
He picked up the tab, what a treat!