Retranchement (en. Retrenchment)

/ʁə.tʁɑ̃ʃ.mɑ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Measures of budget reduction, often taken by an organization.
The company decided on a 20% retrenchment of its costs.
L'entreprise a décidé d'un retranchement de 20 % de ses coûts.
Part of a fortification where one takes shelter.
The commander ordered to strengthen the retrenchment to the east of the city.
Le commandant a ordonné de renforcer le retranchement à l'est de la ville.
The act of withdrawing behind defenses.
The soldiers made a retrenchment after the enemy attack.
Les soldats ont réalisé un retranchement après l'attaque ennemie.

Etymology

From the verb 'retrancher,' which means to remove, cut.

Common Phrases and Expressions

return to the retrenchment
Return to a situation where one must defend or protect oneself.
retour au retranchement

Related Words

to retrench
To remove, cut, or reduce a part of something.
retrancher
retreat
The act of withdrawing, often in the face of an unfavorable situation.
retraite

Slang Meanings

Strategic retreat in a game context.
He made a retrenchment to prepare for a better counterattack.
Il a fait un retranchement pour préparer une meilleure contre-attaque.
To take a step back from a difficult situation.
After losing at poker, he decided to make a temporary retrenchment.
Après avoir perdu au poker, il a décidé de faire un retranchement temporaire.