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retroflection

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌrɛtrəˈflɛkʃən/

KK: /rɛtrəˈflɛkʃən/

noun
Definition

The act of bending something backward, especially in a way that it reflects or turns back on itself.


Example

The retroflection of the sound waves created an interesting acoustic effect in the room.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term retroflection?
Sloth B
I think I've come across it, but I'm not sure what it means.
Sloth A
It refers to something being bent backwards, like in yoga poses.
Sloth B
Ah, that makes sense! I guess I should pay more attention to my form.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reversal
reflection
inversion
Antonyms
extension
projection
expansion
Root Explanation

Retroflection is formed from "retro-" (meaning backward) and "flectere" (meaning to bend). The word describes the act of bending backward, often used in the context of certain speech sounds or movements.

Memory Tip

Think of bending 'backward' ('retro-') — that's why retroflection refers to bending back.

Visually Confused Words
reflection
preflection
relection
refection
retoleration
reprotection
reflectional
recollection
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