as in deceleration
a usually gradual decrease in the pace or level of activity of something scientists discovered that they could achieve the retardation of light if they shined it through a variety of substances

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of retardation The degree of retardation is usually mild, but can be moderate to severe. Mark Cohen, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2012 The criteria were: episodes that last no longer than 2 months, and that do not include suicidal feelings, psychotic symptoms, psychomotor retardation, or feelings of worthlessness. Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 15 Mar. 2013 The Everrati's left pedal operates pads on discs in the normal fashion, but the motors also give powerful regenerative retardation when the accelerator is lifted. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 18 June 2021 The Vantage’s brake pedal has a nice firm weight but little travel, retardation being down to pressure rather than movement. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 28 Feb. 2018 The policy of retardation of submarine technology ended right after the beginning of the Anglo-German naval race (marked by the German Naval Laws of 1898 and 1900). chicagotribune.com, 28 July 2017 At the end Austen had psychomotor retardation and could barely move. Rene Chun, Los Angeles Magazine, 19 June 2017 The front wheels threaten to lock up under what feels like normal levels of retardation at low speeds. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 30 June 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retardation
Noun
  • Mike Scott, interim fire chief, had expressed concern over the decline in volunteerism back in February at the Shakopee City Council meeting that revealed the report’s findings.
    Julia Fomby, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
  • Despite the decline and tepid guidance, Wall Street’s biggest research shops remain optimistic that Disney can boost its earnings growth and are watching if the company can show accelerating parks revenue and subscriber trends.
    Pia Singh, CNBC, 6 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • An adjoining 35-story tower is also planned and could be the next major office tower to break ground during a slowdown in new construction.
    Alexandria Sands, Axios, 13 Feb. 2025
  • Both of Joann’s bankruptcy filings seen over the last year arrived amid some slowdowns in discretionary spending — notably with consumers taking a step back from at-home crafts, at least relative to the early COVID-19 pandemic boom.
    Wyatte Grantham-Philips, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • That helped offset a 5.5% drop for Conagra Brands, which lowered its forecasts for upcoming profit and other financial measures.
    Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2025
  • Some states have experienced drops at the pumps, while in others, the cost of gas has increased.
    Washington Examiner Staff, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 18 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • For the past year, Chipotle has outpaced the broader restaurant industry, which has seen traffic slump as many consumers opt to cook their meals to save money.
    Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 4 Feb. 2025
  • The nation’s first and only cobalt mine opened in Idaho in 2023 before halting production due to a price slump in the market that made the mine unprofitable.
    John Towfighi, CNN, 3 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near retardation

Cite this Entry

“Retardation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retardation. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

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