retrenchment Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun entrenchment consisting of an additional interior fortification to prolong the defense
  2. noun the reduction of expenditures in order to become financially stable
    downsizing; curtailment.

WordNet

Re*trench"ment noun
Etymology
Cf. F. retrenchment.
Definitions
  1. The act or process of retrenching; as, the retrenchment of words in a writing.
    The retrenchment of my expenses will convince you that mean to replace your fortune as far as I can. Walpole.
  2. (Fort.) A work constructed within another, to prolong the defense of the position when the enemy has gained possession of the outer work; or to protect the defenders till they can retreat or obtain terms for a capitulation. Syn. -- Lessening; curtailment; diminution; reduction; abridgment.

Webster 1913