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Definition of retrospection

retrospection

/ˌrɛt.rəˈspɛk.ʃən/
ret · ro · spec · tion
Adverb:retrospectively
•
Plural:retrospections
•
Adjective:retrospective
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retrospection Lexical Profile

retrospection Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The action or process of looking back on, contemplating, or reviewing past events and experiences.

Example

"After decades of public service, her memoir offered a thoughtful retrospection on the political challenges of the era."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for retrospection
Antonyms
View all antonyms for retrospection

Word Nuance & Usage

While "retrospection" refers to the general process of reflecting on the past, the shorter noun "retrospect" is almost exclusively used within the fixed idiom "in retrospect" to evaluate past events with the benefit of hindsight.

• Rhymes for retrospection

• Nearby Words

retrograde
retrogress
retrospect
retrospection
retrospective
retrospectively
retry

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 17th century from the Latin verb retrospectare ("to look back"), formed from retro- ("backward") and specere ("to look").

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Retrospection. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/retrospection
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