regressive

adjective

re·​gres·​sive ri-ˈgre-siv How to pronounce regressive (audio)
1
: tending to regress or produce regression
2
: being, characterized by, or developing in the course of an evolutionary process involving increasing simplification of bodily structure
3
: decreasing in rate as the base increases
a regressive tax
regressively adverb
regressiveness noun
regressivity noun

Examples of regressive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Kamala Harris’ progressive campaign, regressive record by Steven Greenhut In Orange County, Harris still is getting brickbats for her refusal to provide oversight as the county endured its snitch scandal. The Editorial Board, Orange County Register, 21 July 2024 Though sentiments about letting the heart guide the head and taking chances are well-intentioned, they’re poorly expressed as regressive statements. Courtney Howard, Variety, 19 July 2024 Carbon dividends could be means-tested, with proportionally larger payments going to lower-income individuals and households to compensate for the inherently regressive nature of what is, in effect, a tax on energy inputs. Andrew S. Erickson, Foreign Affairs, 13 Apr. 2021 That’s more progressive than countries like Finland (4) or Sweden (negative 13, meaning the system is regressive and takes from the poor to give to the rich). Julie Zauzmer Weil, Washington Post, 19 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for regressive 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'regressive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of regressive was in 1634

Dictionary Entries Near regressive

Cite this Entry

“Regressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/regressive. Accessed 20 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

regressive

adjective
re·​gres·​sive ri-ˈgres-iv How to pronounce regressive (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or tending toward regression
2
: gradually decreasing
a regressive tax

Medical Definition

regressive

adjective
re·​gres·​sive ri-ˈgres-iv How to pronounce regressive (audio)
: relating to, resulting from, producing, or characterized by regression
regressive behavior
regressive tissue changes
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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