Regress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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regress

[rɪˈɡrɛs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

statistics

The act of returning to a previous state or condition, usually in a negative sense.

Synonyms

decline, deterioration, retrogression.

Examples of usage

  • The country's economic regress was a result of poor policy decisions.
  • The patient's medical condition showed signs of regress after the treatment.
Context #2 | Verb

psychology

To return to an earlier or less advanced state, especially in terms of behavior or mental development.

Synonyms

backslide, retreat, revert.

Examples of usage

  • The child seemed to regress after the traumatic event.
  • Some individuals may regress to a childlike state under stress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, regression can be a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to behaviors from an earlier stage of development.
  • It’s often noticed when people are under stress or facing challenges, showing how they might seek comfort in past behaviors.
  • Childhood behaviors might emerge in adults under pressure, reflecting unresolved issues or trauma.

Education

  • In learning environments, when students regress, it means they have lost previously acquired knowledge or skills.
  • Factors like lack of practice, increased stress, or changes in teaching methods can contribute to this regression.
  • Educational plans may incorporate reviews and reinforcement strategies to prevent student regression.

Statistics

  • In statistics, regression refers to a set of statistical processes for estimating relationships among variables.
  • Linear regression, specifically, tries to predict the value of one variable based on the value of another.
  • This method is widely used in various fields including economics, biology, and engineering to analyze trends.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of movies and TV shows, characters may regress into child-like states during moments of crisis, allowing viewers to explore deep emotional themes.
  • The concept of regression is used in storytelling to illustrate character development or failure, enriching the narrative.
  • Popular media often depicts characters reverting to simpler times when faced with overwhelming current pressures.

Origin of 'regress'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'regressus', which means 'to step back'.
  • It has been used in English since the early 17th century, maintaining a similar meaning.
  • The prefix 're-' means 'back' and 'gress' comes from 'gradior', which means 'to step' or 'to walk'.

The word 'regress' originated from the Latin word 'regressus', which means 'to go back'. It first appeared in English in the 15th century. The concept of regression has been studied in various fields such as statistics, psychology, and biology. In statistics, regression analysis is used to analyze the relationships between variables. In psychology, regression refers to a defense mechanism where individuals revert to earlier, less mature behaviors. The term 'regress' is commonly used to describe a backward movement or decline in a particular aspect.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,919, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.