retrospective

UK: ˌretrəˈspektɪv | US: ˌretroʊˈspektɪv

Definition

  1. adj. looking back on or dealing with past events or situations

  2. n. an exhibition or compilation showcasing an artist's past work

Structure
retro <backward>spect <look>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "retrospective" combines Latin-derived morphemes:

  • "retro" (from Latin retro, meaning "backward")
  • "spect" (from Latin specere, "to look")
  • "-ive" (a suffix forming adjectives).
    Originally used in the 17th century to describe literal backward-looking views, it later evolved metaphorically to describe reflections on past events (18th century) and artistic exhibitions (early 20th century). The morphemes preserve their core meanings, creating a logical progression from "looking backward" to reflective analysis.
Examples

  1. The museum hosted a retrospective of the painter's career.

  2. His retrospective analysis revealed key mistakes in the project.

  3. The film festival featured a retrospective on 1980s cinema.

  4. She felt a retrospective sadness about her childhood.

  5. The report took a retrospective view of the company's growth.