The spelling of the word "Retrogradation" can be a bit tricky due to its roots in Latin. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˌrɛtrəʊɡreɪˈdeɪʃən/. The "retro" portion comes from the Latin word "retro", meaning "backwards", while "gradus" means "step". The suffix "-ation" is added to denote the action or process of stepping backwards. So, "Retrogradation" refers to the act of moving backwards or the act of regressing. Despite its complex spelling and pronunciation, this word is commonly used in scientific and theological vocabulary.
Retrogradation is a term used in various fields, including chemistry, astronomy, and linguistics, to describe a specific type of movement or change characterized by backward or reverse progression. In chemistry, retrogradation refers to the process in which a substance undergoes a structural change that causes it to revert to a previous state or form. This change often involves the breaking of molecular bonds, resulting in the substance becoming less organized or less stable than before.
In astronomy, retrogradation commonly refers to the apparent periodic backward motion of a planet in its orbit as observed from Earth. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes another planet in its orbit, causing it to seem as if the planet is moving in the opposite direction for a short period of time before resuming its forward motion.
In linguistics, retrogradation is a phonological process in which the order of sounds within a word is reversed. This change can occur in various languages and often affects the pronunciation or sound patterns of words. Retrogradation may result from language evolution, shifts in pronunciation, or specific linguistic rules.
Overall, retrogradation refers to a diverse array of phenomena involving backward or reverse movement or change, whether it be in the context of chemical reactions, planetary motion, or language structure.
The act of going or moving backward.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "retrogradation" originates from the Latin term "retrogradatio", which is derived from the verb "retrogradare". "Retro-" in Latin means "back" or "backward", and "gradare" means "to step" or "to go". Therefore, "retrogradatio" refers to the action of stepping or going backward. Over time, this Latin term was adapted into the English language as "retrogradation", which similarly refers to the act of moving or going backward, reversing, or declining.