retardation
UK: ˌriːtɑːˈdeɪʃən | US: ˌriːtɑːrˈdeɪʃən
n. the act or process of delaying or slowing something
n. a condition of slowed development, especially in intellectual or physical abilities
n. (physics) the reduction in speed or efficiency of a process
retardation = re<back> + tard<slow> + ation<noun suffix>
- re (prefix): From Latin re-, meaning "back" or "again."
- tard (root): From Latin tardus, meaning "slow."
- ation (suffix): A noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process, from Latin -atio.
Etymology Origin:
The word "retardation" traces back to Latin retardare ("to slow down"), combining re- (back) and tardus (slow). It entered English via Old French retardation in the 15th century, initially describing physical or temporal delay. By the 18th century, it gained a specialized meaning in developmental and scientific contexts, reflecting slowed progress or reduced velocity.
The retardation of economic growth alarmed policymakers.
Early intervention can mitigate intellectual retardation in children.
The experiment measured the retardation of light in different mediums.
Engineers studied the retardation effect on the vehicle's braking system.
Social stigma often accompanies discussions about mental retardation.