retard
rih-TAHD
Retard (verb) means to slow down the progress or development of something. Example: “Cold temperatures retard the growth of bacteria in food.”
verb
1
To slow down the progress or development of something.
"Cold temperatures retard the growth of bacteria in food."
noun
1
A delay, or a slowing of pace.
"Engineers built in a slight retard to the ignition timing."
How to use retard
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo hold something back or make it happen more slowly.
When to use it
As a noun referring to a person, this word is an offensive slur and should be avoided entirely; the verb sense (to slow something down) is neutral and still used in technical and formal writing.
Common pairings
retard growth
retard progress
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like retard.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- retards
- Third person singular
- retards
- Past tense
- retarded
Etymology
From Latin retardare, "to make slow," from re- + tardus ("slow").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “retard” mean?
The word “retard” means to slow down the progress or development of something. In plain terms, to hold something back or make it happen more slowly.
How do you pronounce “retard”?
“Retard” is pronounced rih-TAHD (/ɹɪˈtɑɹd/ in IPA).
How do you use “retard” in a sentence?
Here is “retard” used in a sentence: “Cold temperatures retard the growth of bacteria in food.”
What is another word for “retard”?
Words with a similar meaning to “retard” include hinder, slow, slow down, put off and stay back.
What is the opposite of “retard”?
The opposite of “retard” — its antonyms — are accelerate, speed, speed up and come forward.
What part of speech is “retard”?
Depending on how it is used, “retard” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “retard” come from?
The word “retard” comes from Latin. From Latin retardare, "to make slow," from re- + tardus ("slow").
Is “retard” a common word?
“Retard” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
