Retarded has always just been the derogatory schoolyard word for being developmentally disabled.
Like calling a homosexual a fag. Or calling a little person a midget (they DO get angry).
Quote:
re·tard1 Audio pronunciation of "retarded" ( P ) Pronunciation Key (r-tärd)
v. re·tard·ed, re·tard·ing, re·tards
v. tr.
To cause to move or proceed slowly; delay or impede.
v. intr.
To be delayed.
n.
1. A slowing down or hindering of progress; a delay.
2. Music. A slackening of tempo.
adj.
1. (Often Offensive) Affected with mental retardation.
2. Occurring or developing later than desired or expected; delayed.
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Notice the only definition that refers to mental deficit is prefaced by "Often Offensive"
My dad got kicked out of his first highschool for constantly fighting off people who were tormenting his "retarded" sister, my aunt. We were NEVER allowed to use the word... It's always been a faux pas.
And for those who say it's just a label and means nothing... Go to a handicapped person and call them retarded to their face and see if they, or their caretakers, think it's Kosher.