/ˈrɛtrəɡreɪd/ RET-roh-grayd

Definitions

1. adjective

moving or directed backward; backward or reverse movement; moving in the opposite direction

“The comet’s orbit is in retrograde motion, which makes its path appear to reverse direction.”

2. noun

a period in which the usual order or direction is reversed, especially a period in which the Earth appears to move in the opposite direction to its usual orbit around the Sun, as in the case of a planet’s retrograde motion

“The astrologer studied the retrograde of Mercury and its effects on the zodiac signs.”

3. verb

to move or cause something to move backward or in the opposite direction

“The storm is retrograding to the east, bringing rain and strong winds to the coastal areas.”

4. verb

to go back on a previous decision, promise, or commitment

“The politician was accused of retrograding on his campaign promises.”