retroflex meaning and definition

RETROFLEX verb

Definition of retroflex (verb)

1. bend or turn backward
   • synonyms: replicate
2. articulate (a consonant) with the tongue curled back against the palate
   • "Indian accents can be characterized by the fact that speakers retroflex their consonants"

RETROFLEX adjective

Definition of retroflex (adjective)

1. bent or curved backward
   • synonyms: retroflexed
2. pronounced with the tip of the tongue turned back toward the hard palate
   • synonyms: cacuminal