retard

[ ri-tahrd, for 1-3, 5; ree-tahrd for 4 ]

See synonyms for retard on Thesaurus.com

verb (used with object)

to make slow; delay the development or progress of (an action, process, etc.); hinder or impede.

verb (used without object)

to be delayed.

noun

a slowing down, diminution, or hindrance, as in a machine.
Slang: Disparaging and Offensive.
- a contemptuous term used to refer to a person who is cognitively impaired.
- a person who is stupid, obtuse, or ineffective in some way.

Automotive, Machinery. an adjustment made in the setting of the distributor of an internal-combustion engine so that the spark for ignition in each cylinder is generated later in the cycle.: Compare advance (def. 28).

Origin of retard

First recorded in 1480–90; from Latin retardāre to delay, protract, equivalent to re- re- + tardāre “to loiter, be slow,” derivative of tardus “slow”; see tardy

usage note For retard

See retarded.

Other words for retard

1	obstruct, check

See synonyms for retard on Thesaurus.com

Opposites for retard

1	accelerate

See antonyms for retard on Thesaurus.com

Other words from retard

re·tard·ing·ly, adverb

Words Nearby retard

British Dictionary definitions for retard

retard

verb(rɪˈtɑːd)

(tr) to delay or slow down (the progress, speed, or development) of (something)

noun(ˈriːtɑːd)

US offensive a retarded person
US offensive a foolish person

Origin of retard

C15: from Old French retarder, from Latin retardāre, from re- + tardāre to make slow, from tardus sluggish; see tardy

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Browse