Definition of retardationnext
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 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 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 degree of retardation is usually mild, but can be moderate to severe. Mark Cohen, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2012
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retardation
Noun
  • Murphy, an instrumentation engineer, had designed electronic strain gauge sensors that could accurately measure the amount of G-force applied during deceleration.
    Laura Payne, Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 July 2026
  • This would lead to massive deceleration forces that instantly pulverize standard tracking electronics, leaving search teams completely blind.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 10 July 2026
Noun
  • An analysis from the Florida Policy Institute shows that the SNAP caseload has dropped in every Florida county, including a 10% decline in Miami-Dade County, from July 2025 to December 2026.
    Austin Horn July 22, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026
  • Investing in nature is crucial for building resilient food systems, combating malnutrition, and preventing economic decline.
    Jamie Hailstone, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
Noun
  • Construction, which began in 2018, took years, partly because of a global slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
  • In sharp contrast to Europe, Hong Kong's IPO market staged a robust turnaround last year following a multi-year slowdown, and that momentum has continued this year.
    Jenny Lee, CNBC, 23 July 2026
Noun
  • This tech transformed vehicle safety by allowing drivers to maintain steering control under heavy braking.
    Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • The difference shows up in tasks like validating automatic emergency braking.
    Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 21 July 2026
Noun
  • Last school year the district experienced an enrollment drop of about 13,000 students, the Miami Herald reported and is projected to lose another 8,000 in the upcoming school year.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026
  • Besides Divinity, directed by Soderbergh protégé Eddie Alcazar, Willis used her own money to launch a clothing line, a venture that fizzled out after an initial drop.
    Gustavo Turner, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026
Noun
  • Related Stories California more than doubled its support for film and TV production last year in response to the post-strike slump.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 23 July 2026
  • However, the stock has been in a slump more recently, dropping 28% in July.
    Kif Leswing, CNBC, 23 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Retardation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retardation. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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