Find Synonyms

retard Synonyms

Another word for retard

Choosing another word for retard depends on context, so the 17 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To delay, impede, or hold back the progress, development, or accomplishment of something.

Usage Example

"Cold temperatures will significantly delay the germination of these seeds."

Strongest
delay
hinder
impede
slow
slow down
hold back
Strong
decelerate
arrest
inhibit
hamper

• noun (Context 2)

A person with an intellectual disability, or a foolish or socially inept person (dated and offensive).

Usage Example

"Using the word as a casual insult is widely condemned by disability advocacy groups."

Strong
idiot
moron
imbecile
fool

• noun (Context 3)

A holding back, slowing down, or delay in progress, development, or timing (especially of an engine's ignition or a musical tempo).

Usage Example

"The mechanic adjusted the ignition timing to correct the excessive retardation at high speeds."

Strongest
retardation
delay
Strong
slowdown
deceleration

Opposites of retard

The opposite of retard shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

speed up
expedite
accelerate
advance
hasten
acceleration
promote
genius
See all opposites of retard

• Nearby Words

retaliatory
retama
retape
retard
retardant
retardation
retarded

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Retard. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/retard
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