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Webster 1913 Edition
Retrograde
Re′tro-grade
,Adj.
[L.
retrogradus
, from retrogradi
, retrogressus
, to retrograde; retro
back + gradi
to step: cf. F. rétrograde
. See Grade
.] 1.
(Astron.)
Apparently moving backward, and contrary to the succession of the signs, that is, from east to west, as a planet.
Hutton.
And if he be in the west side in that condition, then is he
retrograde
. Chaucer.
2.
Tending or moving backward; having a backward course; contrary;
“Progressive and not retrograde.” as, a
; – opposed to retrograde
motionprogressive
. Bacon.
It is most
retrograde
to our desire. Shakespeare
3.
Declining from a better to a worse state;
as, a
retrograde
people; retrograde
ideas, morals, etc. Bacon.
Re′tro-grade
,Verb.
I.
[
imp. & p. p.
Retrograded
; p. pr. & vb. n.
Retrograding
.] [L.
retrogradare
, retrogradi
: cf. F. rétrograder
.] 1.
To go in a retrograde direction; to move, or appear to move, backward, as a planet.
2.
Hence, to decline from a better to a worse condition, as in morals or intelligence.
Webster 1828 Edition
Retrograde
RET'ROGRADE
,Adj.
1.
Going or moving backwards.2.
In astronomy, apparently moving backward and contrary to the succession of the signs, as a planet.3.
Declining from a better to a worse state.RET'ROGRADE
,Verb.
I.