retrospect
UK: ˈret.rə.spekt | US: ˈret.roʊ.spekt
n. a review or contemplation of past events
vt. to look back on or consider past events
The word "retrospect" originates from Latin retrospectare, combining retro ("backward") and specere ("to look"). It entered English in the early 17th century, retaining its literal sense of "looking back." Over time, it evolved to describe the act of reflecting on past events, emphasizing a mental rather than physical gaze. The logic is straightforward: retro directs attention to the past, while spect implies observation or examination.
In retrospect, I realize I should have studied harder for the exam.
The documentary offers a fascinating retrospect of the artist’s life.
She often retrospectes her childhood with fondness.
His speech included a brief retrospect of the company’s achievements.
The book provides a detailed retrospect of the war’s major battles.