How Do You Spell RETCON?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪtkˈɒn] (IPA)

Retcon is a mashup of the words "retroactive" and "continuity" used to describe a storytelling device where previously established story elements are changed, often to repair contradictions or inconsistencies. The spelling of "retcon" is straightforward: [ˈrɛt.kɑn], with the stress on the first syllable. The "r" is pronounced as in "red", the "t" as in "top", and the "o" as in "hot". The "c" sounds like "k", and the "n" as in "when". Together, the word sounds like "RET-kahn."

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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RETCON Meaning and Definition

  1. "Retcon," short for "retroactive continuity," is a term primarily used in the field of storytelling, especially in literature, film, and comic books. It refers to the act of altering and revising previously established facts or events within a fictional narrative, thereby modifying the continuity of the story. The purpose of a retcon is typically to rectify inconsistencies, plot holes, or creative choices that are incongruous with the existing storyline or to introduce new elements that refocus the direction of the narrative.

    Retcons can involve different techniques, such as rewriting a character's history, changing the outcome of an event, or adding new information that fills gaps in the continuity. By carrying out a retcon, storytellers aim to provide a more coherent and cohesive narrative structure, ensuring that subsequent developments align with the established foundation of the storyworld.

    The practice of retconning often generates controversies and discussions among fans, as it can alter long-standing canon, character arcs, or relationships. While retcons may enhance a story's integrity by ironing out inconsistencies or injecting fresh ideas, they can also be perceived as undermining the original intent or integrity of the narrative. Nevertheless, retcons have become a common tool used by storytellers to breathe new life into ongoing narratives, add depth to established characters, or reshape a story's trajectory to suit evolving creative visions.

Common Misspellings for RETCON

  • rearcon
  • rEDCON
  • REiCON
  • eetcon
  • fetcon
  • tetcon
  • 5etcon
  • 4etcon
  • rwtcon
  • rstcon
  • rdtcon
  • rrtcon
  • r4tcon
  • r3tcon
  • refcon
  • reycon
  • re6con
  • re5con
  • retxon
  • retvon

Etymology of RETCON

The word "retcon" is a portmanteau of two words: "retroactive" and "continuity". The term was coined in the world of comic books, specifically in the context of superhero storylines. It refers to the practice of altering or reinterpreting previously established facts or events in a fictional series, in order to reconcile inconsistencies or contradictions, typically for narrative convenience. The concept of retroactively modifying continuity has been a part of various fictional mediums, but "retcon" as a distinct term originated in the comic book industry in the 1980s. Its usage has since expanded beyond comics to other forms of entertainment, where it describes similar revisions made to the continuity of established storylines.