RETARDATION Synonyms: 25 Similar and Opposite Words

retardation

noun

ˌrē-ˌtär-ˈdā-shən

Definition of retardation

as in deceleration

a usually gradual decrease in the pace or level of activity of something scientists discovered that they could achieve the retardation of light if they shined it through a variety of substances

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of retardation The Everrati's left pedal operates pads on discs in the normal fashion, but the motors also give powerful regenerative retardation when the accelerator is lifted. — Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 18 June 2021 The policy of retardation of submarine technology ended right after the beginning of the Anglo-German naval race (marked by the German Naval Laws of 1898 and 1900). — chicagotribune.com, 28 July 2017 At the end Austen had psychomotor retardation and could barely move. — Rene Chun, Los Angeles Magazine, 19 June 2017 The degree of retardation is usually mild, but can be moderate to severe. — Mark Cohen, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2012

Recent Examples of Synonyms for retardation

Noun

Over time, without regular use, the back of the body can lose its functional capacity for deceleration, which is when chronic knee pain generally starts to show up.

— Dana Santas, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026
But Delapierre was flung forwards violently by the rapid deceleration and suffered a nasty face-plant into the cockpit.

— Andrew Rice, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of deceleration

Noun

That rapid decline makes the question of how coach Dan Campbell and the team rebound one of the most interesting in the entire league.

— NBC Sports, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026
The local enrollment declines are mostly concentrated in local districts’ elementary schools.

— Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of decline

Noun

Mandate proven vehicle safety technology like side guards and automatic braking.

— Jessica Walker, New York Daily News, 24 Aug. 2026
In addition to Formula 1-standard safety barriers on the track, GPX Stream sends a driver’s in-car data and video to the pit lane, where Macleod can review braking, balance and line without occupying the passenger seat.

— Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of braking

Noun

Unitree’s recent slump has raised concerns about how Beijing may boost emerging strategic sectors without stoking a speculative frenzy.

— Anniek Bao,Elaine Yu, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Cal Raleigh busted out of a season-long slump with the first three-homer game of his career Monday night.

— ABC News, ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of slump

Browse Nearby Words

retardant

retardation

retardations

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“Retardation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retardation. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of retardation

noun

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