regression
Regression (noun) means a return to an earlier, usually less developed or less desirable, state. Example: “Therapists sometimes see regression in patients under extreme stress.”
How to use regression
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFalling back to an earlier state — used in psychology, statistics, and software testing in different specific ways.
Word forms
regressions plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Therapists sometimes see _____ in patients under extreme stress.
Etymology
A learned borrowing from Latin regressio, built on regress plus -ion. The statistical sense comes from the phrase "regression to the mean."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for regression
Frequently asked questions
What does “regression” mean?
The word “regression” means a return to an earlier, usually less developed or less desirable, state. In plain terms, falling back to an earlier state — used in psychology, statistics, and software testing in different specific ways.
How do you pronounce “regression”?
“Regression” is pronounced rih-GREHSH-uhn (/ɹiːˈɡɹɛʃ.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “regression” in a sentence?
Here is “regression” used in a sentence: “Therapists sometimes see regression in patients under extreme stress.”
What is the opposite of “regression”?
The opposite of “regression” — its antonyms — is progression.
What part of speech is “regression”?
“Regression” is a noun.
Where does the word “regression” come from?
The word “regression” comes from Latin. A learned borrowing from Latin regressio, built on regress plus -ion. The statistical sense comes from the phrase "regression to the mean.".
Is “regression” a common word?
“Regression” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “regression” have?
“Regression” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a return to an earlier, usually less developed or less desirable, state.