/re"treuh spekt'/ , n.
1. contemplation of the past; a survey of past time, events, etc.
2. in retrospect , in looking back on past events; upon reflection: It was, in retrospect, the happiest day of her life.
v.i.
3. to look back in thought; refer back (often fol. by to ): to retrospect to a period in one's youth.
v.t.
4. to look back upon; contemplate retrospectively.
[ 1595-1605; prob. RETRO- + (PRO)SPECT ]