retarder

noun

re·​tard·​er
rə̇ˈtärdər
rēˈ-
-tȧdə(r
plural -s
: one that retards: such as
a
: a substance that when added to a cement or to gypsum plaster prolongs the setting time
c
: a power-operated braking device placed in the classification tracks of hump yards to control the speed of moving railroad cars
d
: a substance added in small proportion to a rubber compound for retarding vulcanization

Word History

Etymology

retard entry 1 + -er

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Cite this Entry

“Retarder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retarder. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!