Definition
An astrological phenomenon believed to occur when Mercury appears to move backward in its orbit relative to Earth, supposedly causing communication breakdowns, technology malfunctions, and relationship complications. It occurs three to four times per year for about three weeks each.
Example Usage
Don't sign any contracts this week—Mercury is in retrograde and everything always goes wrong during this time.
Origin
From classical astrology; the term combines Latin 'Mercurius' (the Roman god of communication) and 'retrograde' meaning backward motion.
Fun Fact
Mercury retrograde is purely an optical illusion caused by the relative orbital speeds of Mercury and Earth; it has no scientifically proven effect on human affairs.
Related Terms
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