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Retardation: meaning, definitions and examples

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retardation

 

[ rɪˌtɑːrdəˈreɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific process

Retardation refers to the act of slowing down or delaying a process. In various fields, such as physics and psychology, it indicates a reduction in speed or development. It often describes the impact on growth rates, mental development, or physical movement.

Synonyms

delay, hindrance, impediment, slowing

Examples of usage

  • The retardation of light in a medium depends on its refractive index.
  • The child showed signs of mental retardation, prompting a psychological evaluation.
  • The retardation of the vehicle was due to the uneven surface of the road.

Translations

Translations of the word "retardation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 retardamento

🇮🇳 विलंब

🇩🇪 Verzögerung

🇮🇩 penundaan

🇺🇦 запізнення

🇵🇱 opóźnienie

🇯🇵 遅延

🇫🇷 retardement

🇪🇸 retraso

🇹🇷 gecikme

🇰🇷 지연

🇸🇦 تأخير

🇨🇿 zpoždění

🇸🇰 oneskorenie

🇨🇳 延迟

🇸🇮 zamuda

🇮🇸 töf

🇰🇿 кейінгізу

🇬🇪 დაგვიანება

🇦🇿 gecikmə

🇲🇽 retraso

Etymology

The word 'retardation' originates from the Latin term 'retardatio', which means 'a slowing down'. The root 'retardare' translates to 'to delay', composed of 're-' (back) and 'tardare' (to make late). Although the term has been used in various scientific fields since the 17th century, its use in educational and psychological contexts regarding intellectual development has been more pronounced in the 20th century. Over time, the term has faced criticism and is often considered outdated or insensitive in the context of intellectual disabilities. As a result, language surrounding this topic has evolved, leading to a preference for more respectful terminology.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,706 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.