retardate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareOffensive; avoided in contemporary English.
Quick answer
What does “retardate” mean?
A person with intellectual disabilities (dated and offensive term).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person with intellectual disabilities (dated and offensive term).
Historically used in formal contexts to denote individuals with cognitive impairments; now obsolete and pejorative.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No substantial differences; both varieties regard the term as outdated and derogatory.
Connotations
Highly negative and insulting.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency; primarily found in historical texts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable; avoid using.
Academic
Avoided; use 'persons with intellectual disabilities' or specific diagnostic terms.
Everyday
Should never be used due to its offensive nature.
Technical
Obsolete in medical and psychological terminology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “retardate”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “retardate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “retardate”
- Using 'retardate' in modern speech, which is considered highly offensive.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered outdated and offensive.
Use person-first language like 'person with intellectual disabilities'.
It reduces individuals to their disability and has negative historical connotations.
No, it should be avoided; use contemporary, respectful terminology.
A person with intellectual disabilities (dated and offensive term).
Retardate is usually offensive; avoided in contemporary english. in register.
Retardate: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˈtɑː.deɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˈtɑːr.deɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember that 'retardate' is an outdated term; think 'retard' + 'ate', but it's best to avoid it altogether.
Conceptual Metaphor
Not applicable.
Practice
Quiz
What is the modern acceptable term for 'retardate'?