as in deceleration
a usually gradual decrease in the pace or level of activity of something scientists discovered that they could achieve the retardation of light if they shined it through a variety of substances

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of retardation The degree of retardation is usually mild, but can be moderate to severe. Mark Cohen, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2012 The criteria were: episodes that last no longer than 2 months, and that do not include suicidal feelings, psychotic symptoms, psychomotor retardation, or feelings of worthlessness. Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 15 Mar. 2013 The Everrati's left pedal operates pads on discs in the normal fashion, but the motors also give powerful regenerative retardation when the accelerator is lifted. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 18 June 2021 The Vantage’s brake pedal has a nice firm weight but little travel, retardation being down to pressure rather than movement. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 28 Feb. 2018 The policy of retardation of submarine technology ended right after the beginning of the Anglo-German naval race (marked by the German Naval Laws of 1898 and 1900). chicagotribune.com, 28 July 2017 At the end Austen had psychomotor retardation and could barely move. Rene Chun, Los Angeles Magazine, 19 June 2017 The front wheels threaten to lock up under what feels like normal levels of retardation at low speeds. Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 30 June 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retardation
Noun
  • However, the revival of games like Brawl Stars proves that decline is not inevitable.
    Pawan Gaargi, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • However, the decline in traditional alcohol consumption may be exaggerated.
    Michael Khouw, CNBC, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which has run Japan with just two brief gaps since 1955, is very skilled at pinning economic slowdowns on the BOJ.
    William Pesek, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • The slowdown in Sin City is in line with what’s going on elsewhere, Hill said.
    Matt Villano, CNN Money, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • That can play an important role, but crime analysts say the reasons behind these drops are more complex and broader.
    Meg Anderson, NPR, 30 June 2025
  • Inspired by streetwear marketing that plays on exclusivity and hype, Absolute Merch’s full-scale merch strategies also feature merch drops and limited-edition designs that power community and revenue, often leading to merch trades among fans.
    Andrea Zarczynski, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • The restaurant industry has experienced a slump in the aftermath of ICE’s arrival in Los Angeles, with fewer customers dining in and more staff calling out.
    Karla Marie Sanford, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2025
  • At 24, the question is whether there will be third-year growth after a significant sophomore slump.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Retardation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retardation. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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