Retarding: meaning, definitions and examples

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retarding

 

[ rɪˈtɑrdɪŋ ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

slowing down

Retarding refers to causing a decrease in speed, progress, or development. It can be used in various contexts, including mechanical processes, learning, and even social development.

Synonyms

delaying, hastening, hindering, impeding, slowing

Examples of usage

  • The heavy rain is retarding the construction work.
  • His illness is retarding his recovery.
  • Certain policies might be retarding economic growth.
Context #2 | Adjective

developmental delay

When used as an adjective, retarding describes something that is causing or relating to a delay in development, particularly in the context of disabilities or educational settings.

Synonyms

delaying, hindering, impeding, restricting

Examples of usage

  • Retarding factors affect a child's ability to learn effectively.
  • The retarding effects of poverty on education are well-documented.
  • She was concerned about the retarding influence of negative peer pressure.

Translations

Translations of the word "retarding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atrasando

🇮🇳 धीमा करना

🇩🇪 verzögernd

🇮🇩 menghambat

🇺🇦 уповільнення

🇵🇱 opóźnianie

🇯🇵 遅延する

🇫🇷 retardant

🇪🇸 retrasando

🇹🇷 yavaşlatma

🇰🇷 지연시키다

🇸🇦 إبطاء

🇨🇿 zpožďující

🇸🇰 spomaľovanie

🇨🇳 延迟

🇸🇮 upočasnitev

🇮🇸 seinka

🇰🇿 баяулау

🇬🇪 გადავადება

🇦🇿 gecikdirmək

🇲🇽 retrasando

Etymology

The word 'retard' is derived from the Latin verb 'retardare', which means 'to delay or hinder'. It is composed of the prefix 're-' meaning 'back' and 'tardare' meaning 'to make slow or delay'. The term was utilized in English around the early 19th century, initially applied in a mechanical or general sense to describe the slowing of motion or progress. By the mid-20th century, its usage had expanded into educational contexts, particularly in reference to developmental delays in children. However, it is important to note that the term has fallen out of favor in recent years due to its perceived negative connotations in relation to intellectual disabilities, prompting a shift towards more respectful language in discussions of developmental differences.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,964, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.