One dictionary I have at hand details five definitions of the word retard.

Why do we have to feel obliged to take offense at the whole word due to one slang definition.

Why should MEATPISTOL be a problem?

retard

1. to make slow; delay the development or progress of (an action, process, etc.); hinder or impede. verb (used without object)

2. to be delayed.

noun

3. a slowing down, diminution, or hindrance, as in a machine.

4. Slang: Disparaging and Offensive. a contemptuous term used to refer to a person who is cognitively impaired.

a person who is stupid, obtuse, or ineffective in some way: a hopeless social retard.

5. Automotive, Machinery. an adjustment made in the setting of the distributor of an internal-combustion engine so that the spark for ignition in each cylinder is generated later in the cycle.

I'm not offended and don't take issues with the use of retard in a non-slang context, but for the naming of a project I think it's inappropriate to use a word that could bring back hurtful memories of harassment that people have potentially endured.

Don't get anywhere near fire retardants...

Seriously, there is a balance to be had. People who went through traumatic events are often offered therapy precisely because you can't reasonably expect the entire world to guess and remove every single thing that can trigger someone's hurtful memories.

Then can we at least postpone the renaming until someone actually complains about it first-hand, rather than "just in case" and on someone else's behalf?

Would you name a project the same as your username?

That's a historical accident. My name in RuneScape when I played as a kid had football in it and I shortened it to foota.

I'm glad I don't work at a company where the thought police will come down on you if you don't take yourself too seriously.

"Thought Police" is alt-right for "Nazi"

Didn't you get the memo? Anyone who doesn't immediately and fully agree with your position is a "nazi", regardless of what that position is.

Still okay if there were any co-workers who found it offensive? Perhaps because it hits home for them?

Am I the only one who immediately thinks of the verb form of "retard" when it's presented with absolutely no context?

I'm so used to hearing without any conceit that antibacterial mouthwashes can retard bacterial growth.

You think like Airbus.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sikGj2flLB8

I'm glad we haven't been forced to stop using ritardando in music settings yet.

To me the word "retard" immediately brings to mind fire retardants. Offense is in the eye of the person who takes offense...