retrograde

[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.

2. Tending or moving backward; having a backward course; contrary; as, a retrograde motion; -- opposed to progressive. «Progressive and not retrograde.» Bacon.

It is most retrograde to our desire.

3. Declining from a better to a worse state; as, a retrograde people; retrograde ideas, morals, etc. Bacon.

Re·tro·grade
v. 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.