1. in a way that returns to an earlier or less advanced state
2. in a way that takes proportionally more from those with lower incomes
Usage: economics; taxation

Examples

• The patient’s condition deteriorated regressively over several months.
• His behavior became regressively childish under stress.
• The new tax policy affects citizens regressively, hurting the poor most.
• Sales tax systems typically operate regressively across income levels.
• The company’s policies moved regressively toward outdated practices.
• Her memory problems progressed regressively, affecting recent events first.