protractile

[ proh-trak-til, -tahyl, pruh- ]

adjective

1. capable of being protracted, lengthened, or protruded.

protractile

/ prəˈtræktaɪl /

adjective

1. able to be extended or protruded

   protractile muscle

Other Words From

• protrac·tili·ty noun
• nonpro·tractile adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of protractile¹

First recorded in 1820–30; protract + -ile

Example Sentences

Balbiani describes the buccal cavity as containing a protractile stylet.

From Project Gutenberg

The intermaxillaries are moderately protractile, and curve a little downwards.

From Project Gutenberg

The intermaxillaries are moderately protractile, but the lower jaw, when depressed, projects still further forward.

From Project Gutenberg

Protrud′able, Protru′sile, protractile; Protru′sible, able to be protruded.

From Project Gutenberg