a. [ 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

And if he be in the west side in that condition, then is he retrograde. Chaucer. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Tending or moving backward; having a backward course; contrary; as, a retrograde motion; -- opposed to progressive. “Progressive and not retrograde.” Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

It is most retrograde to our desire. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Declining from a better to a worse state; as, a retrograde people; retrograde ideas, morals, etc. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Hence, to decline from a better to a worse condition, as in morals or intelligence. [ 1913 Webster ]