Retrograde Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
retrograde
[หrษtrษ(ส)ษกreษชd ]
Definitions
planetary motion
Directed or moving backward, especially referring to the motion of a planet in its orbit. Retrograde motion is an optical illusion caused by the relative positions of Earth and the planet in question.
Examples of usage
- The apparent retrograde motion of Mars puzzled astronomers for centuries.
- During retrograde periods, it may feel like things are moving in reverse.
behavior
Involving a return to an earlier and typically worse state or condition. Regressive or declining.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| retrograde |
This word is often used in formal or scientific contexts to describe something moving backward or deteriorating over time. It can also refer to something that appears to be going back to a less advanced state.
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| regressive |
This term is often used in social, political, or economic contexts to describe policies or actions that move society or an entity back to a previous, less advanced state. It carries a negative connotation.
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| declining |
This word is generally used to describe a decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It can be used in various contexts, like health, economy, or social status.
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Examples of usage
- The country's retrograde economic policies led to a recession.
- The company's decision to cut employee benefits was seen as a retrograde step.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Astronomy
- In astronomy, retrograde motion occurs when a planet appears to move backward in its orbit due to the relative positions of the Earth and that planet.
- Mars goes retrograde approximately every two years, leading to spectacular visuals in the night sky.
- Ancient astronomers often struggled to explain retrograde motion, leading to the development of the geocentric model of the universe.
Cultural References
- The term 'retrograde' often appears in astrology, suggesting times when a planet's influence may cause setbacks or challenges.
- In popular culture, 'retrograde' is used to describe fashion or trends that pull inspiration from the past, highlighting nostalgia.
- Music and art sometimes embrace the concept of retrograde to create pieces that reflect prior styles or eras.
Science
- In psychology, a retrograde amnesia refers to a condition where a person cannot recall memories from a period before a specific event.
- Geologically, retrograde metamorphism describes the process where rocks change under decreasing temperature and pressure conditions, providing insights into Earthโs history.
- In mathematics, retrograde analysis involves working backward from a known end state to deduce preceding conditions or moves.
Literature
- Authors often use retrograde narratives to tell stories in reverse order, creating suspense and intrigue.
- The 'retrograde' concept appears in literary discussions about themes of returning to origins or addressing past mistakes.
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters sometimes exhibit retrograde views, holding onto traditional beliefs as society progresses around them.
Origin of 'retrograde'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'retrogradus', which means 'going backward'.
- It was used in astronomy to describe the apparent backward motion of planets.
- The prefix 'retro-' means 'backward' or 'behind', which helps to understand its meaning.
The word 'retrograde' originates from the Latin word 'retrogradus', which is derived from 'retro-' meaning 'backwards' and 'gradus' meaning 'step'. The term was first used in the context of planetary motion, describing the perceived backward movement of planets in the sky. Over time, 'retrograde' has also come to be used in a metaphorical sense to describe a regression or decline in various aspects.