regressive

[ri-gres-iv]

adjective

1. regressing or tending to regress; retrogressive.

2. Biology.,  of, relating to, or effecting regression.

3. (of tax) decreasing proportionately with an increase in the tax base.

4. Logic.,  obtained from or characterized by backward reasoning.

Other Word Forms

• regressively adverb
• regressiveness noun
• regressivity noun
• nonregressive adjective
• nonregressively adverb
• unregressive adjective
• unregressively adverb
• unregressiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of regressive¹

First recorded in 1625–35; regress + -ive

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, popular and scholarly treatments of white Southerners as overwhelmingly conservative and racially regressive abound.

From Salon

In the short term, the Budget Lab notes, tariffs are regressive — they strike disproportionately at lower-income people.

From Los Angeles Times

While framed as a “baby bonus” to build wealth, the program’s structure is deeply flawed and regressive.

From Salon

In turn, the production of “Elio” also illuminates the regressive political climate in this country.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s a regressive tax masquerading as environmental action.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• archconservative 
• counterrevolutionary 
• rightist 
• ultraconservative