retrogression

[ re-truh-gresh-uhn ]

noun

1. the act of retrogressing; movement backward.
2. Biology. degeneration; retrograde metamorphosis; passing from a more complex to a simpler structure.

Word History and Origins

Origin of retrogression¹

1640–50; < Latin retrōgress ( us ) ( retrogress ) + -ion

Example Sentences

Indeed, there is good reason to fear that we will see retrogression in third-generation Hispanic immigrants.

From The Daily Beast

Is the progress that seems attainable in certain directions worth the retrogression that may be its price?

From Project Gutenberg

Ingres could not paint flesh, and in this respect he is indicative of an enormous retrogression as compared with Prudhon.

From Project Gutenberg

Retrogression, reapproach to a standpoint to which the race has been long habituated in the past, is easier.

From Project Gutenberg

But I apprehend that retrogression can only occur where the environment of a living species is altered to its detriment.

From Project Gutenberg

In all other essential respects save one, the decade was a period of retrogression for New York City.

From Project Gutenberg