Retractive

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Involving the process of drawing something back or pulling it inward
2. Pertaining to the ability to withdraw or recede in a given situation
3. Relating to the act of pulling something toward its origin or center ; describing something able to be drawn back or pulled inward

Etymology: "Retractive" is a plain formation: the verb "retract" with the adjective-forming suffix "-ive" attached. "Retract" itself comes from Latin "retractare," meaning to draw back or handle again, built from "re-" (back) and "tractare" (to drag or handle), the same root that gives English "tractor" and "traction." The suffix "-ive" marks something having the quality or tendency of the action named by the verb, so a retractive movement is one that draws something back or inward.

Synonyms: withdrawn, receding

Antonyms: extensive, expansive