noun In linguistics, a retronym is a type of word that is used to specify the original meaning of a term that has been used for a different meaning due to technological or social changes.
In literature, retronyms can be used to add depth to characters or settings by highlighting historical or cultural references. For example, a character in a novel may refer to a 'horse-drawn carriage' as a retronym to evoke a sense of nostalgia or antiqui
In linguistics, retronyms are used to describe words that are created to distinguish the original version of a word from a new version that has emerged due to technological or societal changes. For example, 'analog watch' and 'landline phone' are retronym
In technology, retronyms are commonly used to describe older versions of products or technologies that have been replaced or updated. For example, 'manual transmission' is a retronym used to distinguish it from 'automatic transmission' in cars.
In cultural contexts, retronyms are used to highlight shifts in societal norms or practices. For example, 'traditional marriage' may be used as a retronym to distinguish it from 'same-sex marriage' in discussions about marriage equality.
In the field of literature, a retronym may be used to differentiate between traditional forms of writing (e.g. novels, essays) and newer forms (e-books, blogs).
Psychologists may use retronyms when discussing different schools of thought within the field (e.g. behaviorism vs. cognitive psychology) to clarify distinctions between them.