ˈtrēd.ə̇s, -ētə̇s, chiefly Brit -ə̇z noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English tretis, from Anglo-French tretiz, probably from Old French traitier to treat — more at treat
1. : a writing (as a book or article) that treats a subject ; specifically : one that provides in a systematic manner and for an expository or argumentive purpose a methodical discussion of the facts and principles involved and conclusions reached
the great source book and treatise on canon law — G.C.Sellery
preparation of this treatise on the natural resources of Louisiana — J.B.Robson
2. obsolete : a spoken or written narrative : account , story , tale
my bell of hair would at a dismal treatise rouse and stir — Shakespeare
Synonyms: see discourse