retire

/ɹɪˈtaɪə/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: retires · retiring

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To stop working on a permanent basis, usually because of old age or illness.

Verb

Examples

Having made a large fortune, he retired.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To stop playing their sport and in competitions a sports player.

Verb

Examples

I have decided to retire from football at the end of the season after the World Cup.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A place to which one retires.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A call sounded on a bugle, announcing to skirmishers that they are to retire, or fall back.

NounRegister: dated

Examples

At the retire, the cavalry fell back.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “retire” mean?

To stop working on a permanent basis, usually because of old age or illness.

Is “retire” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.