Re-tĕn′tive1, a.
a. [Fr. rétentif, Pr. retentiu, It. retentivo, ritentitivo.] Having the power to retain; as, a retentive memory.
Nor airless dungeon, nor strong links of iron, Can be retentive to the strength of spirit. Shak.
2 entries under this word
a. [Fr. rétentif, Pr. retentiu, It. retentivo, ritentitivo.] Having the power to retain; as, a retentive memory.
Nor airless dungeon, nor strong links of iron, Can be retentive to the strength of spirit. Shak.
That which retains or confines; a restraint. [Obs.] Bp. Hall.