Search
Select the dictionary language
to make something move or operate more slowly
to slow down or decrease speed
to delay or push back an event, task, or decision to a later time
to experience a delay or slow progress in a process or activity
a foolish, stupid, or socially inept person
What is the origin of the term "retard" and how is it used?
"Retard" is an English slang term that emerged in the mid-20th century as a shortening of "retarded," originally used in medical contexts to describe delayed development. In the non-medical sense, it came to be used as a crude insult for someone who is foolish, stupid, or socially inept, divorced from any clinical meaning. The term is highly offensive and vulgar, used in informal, confrontational, or mocking contexts to demean someone's intelligence or behavior. It is not appropriate in polite or formal conversation and carries strong derogatory force.
a person with an intellectual disability
Lexical Tree
