Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Adj.

[Cf. F.

rétentif

Having power to retain;

as, a

retentive

memory

Nor airless dungeon, nor strong links of iron,
Can be

retentive

to the strength of spirit.

Shakespeare

Noun.

That which retains or confines; a restraint.

[R.]

Bp. Hall.

Adj.

Having the power to retain; as a retentive memory; the retentive faculty; the retentive force of the stomach; a body retentive of heat or moisture.