retrograde (B2)

adjective, verb

Pronunciation: /ˈrɛtrəˌɡreɪd/

Definition

Moving backward or in reverse direction; reverting to an earlier or less advanced state.

Examples

• The planet's orbit is retrograde, moving opposite to the direction of Earth's rotation.

• His thinking seemed to be retrograde, clinging to outdated social norms.

• The company experienced a retrograde step in its market share after the new competitor emerged.

How to Use retrograde

retrograde motion (collocation)

Apparent backward movement of a celestial body. — "The retrograde motion of the planets was a key puzzle in early astronomy."

retrograde step (collocation)

A move that causes a return to a less advanced or worse state. — "The government's decision to cut funding for education was a retrograde step."

move retrograde (collocation)

To move backward or in reverse. — "The spacecraft began to move retrograde to correct its trajectory."

Synonyms of retrograde

Words with a similar meaning to retrograde:

• backward
• regressive
• declining
• receding

Antonyms of retrograde

Words with the opposite meaning to retrograde:

• progressive
• advancing
• forward

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