retractile

[ri-trak-til]

adjective

Zoology.

1. capable of being drawn back or in, as the head of a tortoise; exhibiting the power of retraction.

retractile

/ rɪˈtræktaɪl, ˌriːtrækˈtɪlɪtɪ /

adjective

1. capable of being drawn in

   the retractile claws of a cat

Other Word Forms

• retractility noun
• nonretractile adjective
• nonretractility noun
• subretractile adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of retractile¹

First recorded in 1770–80; retract ¹ + -ile

Example Sentences

When the field goal is very, very nice, the denture effect becomes more pronounced, to the point that it starts to resemble a second, retractile mouth, tucked within the larger one; I think of “Alien.”

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The bridge is formally known as a “retractile” bridge.

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The pseudopods are retractile, the axial filament being absorbed as the filament grows shorter and thicker and disappearing when the pseudopod merges into the ectoplasm, to be reformed at the same time with the pseudopod.

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Most species have sharp, curved claws, often retractile between some of the lamellae or into a special sheath.

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The Carchesium differs from the common Vorticella, by branching like a tree, but the stems are all retractile, although the trunk seldom exercises the power.

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Related Words

• fingernail 
• paw 
• tentacle