retardant

[ ri-tahr-dnt ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. any substance capable of reducing the speed of a given reaction.

adjective

1. retarding or tending to retard (usually used in combination):

   fire-retardant construction materials.

retardant

/ rɪˈtɑːdənt /

noun

1. a substance that reduces the rate of a chemical reaction

adjective

1. having a slowing effect

Other Words From

• re·tardance re·tardan·cy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of retardant¹

First recorded in 1635–45; retard + -ant

Example Sentences

Flame retardants are getting into our most commonly used items because these black-colored products are being made from recycled electronic waste, such as discarded television sets and computers, that frequently contain the additives.

From Los Angeles Times

Orange County Fire Authority Chief Brian Fennessy acknowledged drawbacks to use of retardant, including harm to aquatic life if it spills into waterways.

From Los Angeles Times

He was told an aircraft dropped water or fire retardant on the hillside.

From Los Angeles Times

Additionally, some states are taking on the problem of how certain classes of flame retardants are used.

From Salon

Mr Darch told the inquiry that poisoning from organophosphates, a toxic chemical compound, can come from several sources including pesticides, fertiliser, and flammable retardants.

From BBC