1: to withdraw from action or danger :
2: to withdraw especially for privacy
3: to move back :
4: to withdraw from one's position or occupation : conclude one's working or professional career
All of the above are from Webster's. All seem to be what one would not desire. Possibly someone might suggest # 1 with the confrontation of danger is not-to-be-desired; but even danger is something that ultimately must be faced (if not it will chase you until it catches you)
The only time Robert E. Lee retired was to prepare a counterattack.
