Retard
/rɪˈtɑːrd/noun
To delay or slow the progress of something.
Did you know?In the 19th century, 'retard' was used in scientific contexts, primarily relating to the slowing down of processes, before it took on derogatory meanings in modern language.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
retardare
“To make late or delay.”
Old French
Old French
retarder
“To delay or hinder.”
Middle English
Middle English
retarden
“To impede or slow down.”
Modern English
English
retard
“To slow the progress of.”