The meaning of RETROACTIVE is extending in scope or effect to a prior time or to conditions that existed or originated in the past; especially : made effective as of a date prior to enactment, …

RETROACTIVE definition: 1. If a law or decision is retroactive, it has effect from a date before it was approved: 2. If a…. Learn more.

RETROACTIVE definition: operative with respect to past occurrences, as a statute; retrospective. See examples of retroactive used in a sentence.

If a decision or action is retroactive, it is intended to take effect from a date in the past.

Definition of retroactive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Define retroactive. retroactive synonyms, retroactive pronunciation, retroactive translation, English dictionary definition of retroactive. adj. Influencing or applying to a period prior to enactment: a …

Dec 18, 2025 · Adjective retroactive (not comparable) Extending in scope, effect, application or influence to a prior time or to prior conditions

Retroactive refers to something taking effect from a date in the past. It is a law, rule, or term that is applied or enforced retrospectively, or to an act or fact going back and having effect or …

The adjective retroactive refers to something happening now that affects the past. For example, a retroactive tax is one that is passed at one time, but payable back to a time before the tax was …

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective retroactive, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.