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retrogradation


Definition of retrogradation

noun

[mass noun] Astronomy & Astrology
  • the apparent temporary reverse motion of a planet (from east to west), resulting from the relative orbital progress of the earth and the planet.
  • the orbiting or rotation of a planet or planetary satellite in a reverse direction from that normal in the solar system.

Origin:

mid 16th century: from late Latin retrogradation- (see retro-, gradation)

retrogradation in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of retrogradation in the US English dictionary