1 [noncount] : the way that you think of and act toward someone or something
▪ We don't deserve such rude treatment. [=we don't deserve to be treated so rudely] ▪ The principal's daughter received special/preferential treatment from teachers. [=teachers were kinder to and less strict with the principal's daughter than with other students] ▪ We want to ensure equal treatment for everyone. ▪ The law requires humane treatment of prisoners. — see also silent treatment 2 a [noncount] : the way that you deal with or discuss a subject
▪ It's a complicated issue that requires careful treatment. ▪ A five-minute news report on the subject does not allow for depth of treatment. [=does not allow the subject to be dealt with in a way that is complete, thorough, etc.] ▪ The book's treatment of this important issue is unimpressive.
b [count] : something that deals with or discusses a subject
▪ Previous treatments of this topic have ignored some key issues. ▪ an interesting treatment 3 : something that deals with a disease, injury, etc., in order to make someone feel better or become healthy again : medical care [noncount] ▪ The patient required immediate medical treatment. ▪ She is receiving treatment for cancer. ▪ a treatment facility [=a place where you can get medical care] [count] ▪ The drug has been approved as a treatment for AIDS. ▪ cancer treatments 4 [count] : something that you use or do to feel and look healthy or attractive
▪ Mud is sometimes used as a skin treatment. ▪ She went to a spa for a beauty treatment. 5 : a process in which a chemical or other substance is put on or in something in order to protect it, preserve it, clean it, etc. [count] ▪ A special treatment is used to kill bacteria in water. ▪ This treatment will protect the wood from rotting. [noncount] ▪ The instruments are sterilized by treatment with alcohol. ▪ a waste/sewage treatment plant