retard

[ ri-tahrd, ree-tahrd ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make slow; delay the development or progress of (an action, process, etc.); hinder or impede.

   Synonyms: check, obstruct

   Antonyms: accelerate

verb (used without object)

1. to be delayed.

noun

1. a slowing down, diminution, or hindrance, as in a machine.
2. Slang: Disparaging and Offensive.
   1. a contemptuous term used to refer to a person who is cognitively impaired.
   2. a person who is stupid, obtuse, or ineffective in some way.
3. Automotive, Machinery. an adjustment made in the setting of the distributor of an internal-combustion engine so that the spark for ignition in each cylinder is generated later in the cycle. Compare advance ( def 28 ).

retard

verb

1. tr to delay or slow down (the progress, speed, or development) of (something)

noun

1. offensive.
   a retarded person
2. offensive.
   a foolish person

Sensitive Note

See retarded.

Other Words From

• re·tarding·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of retard¹

First recorded in 1480–90; from Latin retardāre to delay, protract, equivalent to re- re- + tardāre “to loiter, be slow,” derivative of tardus “slow”; tardy

Word History and Origins

Origin of retard¹

C15: from Old French retarder , from Latin retardāre , from re- + tardāre to make slow, from tardus sluggish; see tardy

Related Words

• choke off
• crimp
• decelerate
• hamper
• impede
• lessen