Definition

Describing something that has returned to a previous, less advanced state or condition.

Example

After the treatment, the patient regressed to a state of confusion.

Conversation

I feel like our project really regressed after last week's meeting.

I noticed that too; we were making progress before that.

Yeah, it’s frustrating to see us go backward like this.

Let's come up with a new plan to get us back on track.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To return to a previous state or condition, often implying a decline or deterioration.

Example

After several months of progress, the patient regressed and needed more therapy.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I thought I was making progress in my studies, but I feel like I've actually regressed.

Really? What happened?

I got distracted and stopped studying consistently, so now I’m struggling with the material again.

Root Explanation

Regressed → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "gressus" (from "gradi", meaning to step or walk). The word "regressed" means to step back or return to a previous state.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stepping back' ('re-') to remember that 'regressed' means to return to an earlier condition.

Visually Confused Words