What does retrograde mean?

When a planet goes retrograde it appears to move backward in the sky. Its energy turns inward — themes ruled by that planet ask for review, reflection, and revision rather than forward action. Mercury Rx: communication & tech. Venus Rx: relationships & values. Mars Rx: drive & action. Jupiter Rx: growth & wisdom. Saturn Rx: structure & karma. Outer planet retrogrades last months and shape collective inner work.