RETROGRADE Synonyms: 181 Similar and Opposite Words

retrograde 1 of 3

adjective

ˈre-trə-ˌgrād

Definition of retrograde

as in backward

directed, turned, or done toward the back retrograde pedaling will engage the brakes on that bike

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

forward

as in retro

pleasantly reminiscent of an earlier time the loft's retrograde decor seeks to capture the look and feel of the swinging '60s

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

retrograde

2 of 3

verb

as in to deteriorate

to become worse or of less value the Dark Ages, the period following the fall of the Roman Empire when Western civilization seriously retrograded

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

retrograde

3 of 3

adverb

as in counterclockwise

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of retrograde

Adjective

Moyn argues that the oldest Americans, because of their retrograde politics and ever-increasing presence, are profoundly reshaping our collective life. — Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 12 June 2026 This marks an illuminating midpoint in the retrograde cycle, offering insight into the conversations, memories and emotional patterns that have recently resurfaced. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 21 June 2026

Verb

Mercury will retrograde this month, which can bring old insecurities back around. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026 Reevaluate resource allocation as Mercury stations retrograde under a Capricorn full moon. — Usa Today, USA Today, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for retrograde

Recent Examples of Synonyms for retrograde

Adjective

But that works against backward compatibility, so the hope would be at least an optional disc drive will still be sold.

— Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Coming into the Austrian Grand Prix weekend, Ferrari brought with it an engine upgrade, and intrigue surrounded the team as the paddock tried to assess how much of a step forward — or backward — that could be.

— Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 1 July 2026

Definition of backward

Adjective

From bold color contrast to sheer layering and retro prints, caftans can be styled far beyond a basic beach coverup.

— Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 2 July 2026
The Eastport patio umbrella is Serena & Lily’s interpretation of a retro silhouette adapted to fit a coastal aesthetic.

— Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 30 June 2026

Definition of retro

Verb

They can also be used for de-aging characters, creating performances in different languages, or preserving the voice or likeness of an actor whose health is deteriorating, as was the case with CAA client Eric Dane.

— Joy Press, Vanity Fair, 6 July 2026
Though concrete is a durable surface, concrete driveway repair is needed when the surface deteriorates and develops cracks over the years.

— Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026

Definition of deteriorate

Adverb

Alex Wix, who has traveled extensively around Iceland by car and plans private itineraries through her company, Wixsquared, recommends driving it counterclockwise.

— Emese Maczko, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Complete 10 circles clockwise and 10 circles counterclockwise.

— RikkiLynn Shields Hannigan, Health, 24 June 2026

Definition of counterclockwise

Adjective

Jewelry, including earrings, rings, and a watch, was by Bulgari, with Trussardi sunglasses and a vintage Chanel handbag sourced from celebrity fave sourcer and vintage dealer Fashionphile.

— Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 5 July 2026
The lobby’s retro Sweet N’ Glow Salon’s color scheme is as pink as a packet of Sweet N’ Low sugar substitute, complete with beehive hair dryers, vintage magazines, and a kitschy wig collection.

— Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 4 July 2026

Definition of vintage

Verb

Another witness said Lopez stood up twice as the aircraft began descending into Las Vegas, went to the restroom, then returned to his seat before suddenly launching the attack.

— Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Around 1,000 attendees are expected to descend on Madison Square Garden over the next two days to celebrate the union of the music superstar and Super Bowl champion.

— ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026

Definition of descend

Adjective

The event attracts over 60,000 spectators and showcases floats, marching bands, equestrians, dance groups, antique cars and community organizations.

— Jane Tyska, Mercury News, 5 July 2026
Quince Lightweight Coverlets For a vintage vibe, pick up this coverlet that has a channel stitch reminiscent of antique quilts.

— Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 4 July 2026

Definition of antique

Browse Nearby Words

retrofitting

retrograde

retrograded

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Retrograde.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retrograde. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of retrograde

adjective

verb

adverb

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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