Meaning & Definition of Retard in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To cause to be delayed or slow.

  Example Sentence: The heavy rains will retard the growth of the crops.

• Definition: To reduce speed or to slow down something.

  Example Sentence: He used a brake to retard the speed of the vehicle.

• Definition: A term historically used in reference to people with intellectual disabilities (now considered offensive).

  Example Sentence: The outdated use of 'retard' to describe individuals with cognitive impairments is not accepted today.

Etymology

Origin: From Latin 'retardare', meaning 'to delay, hold back'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• retard the process: To slow down or delay a process.
• retard growth: To inhibit the growth or development of something.

Translations

• Spanish: retrasar

• French: retarder

• German: verzögern

• Russian: замедлить

Related Words

• retardation: The action of slowing down development or progress.

• retardant: A substance that slows down a process, especially combustion.

Slang Meanings of retard

• Meaning: An offensive term for someone who is perceived as less intelligent.

  Example Sentence: Don't be such a retard when making your decision.

• Meaning: Used to describe someone acting foolishly or stupidly.

  Example Sentence: Why are you acting like a retard?