retentive

UK: rɪˈtɛntɪv | US: rɪˈtɛntɪv

Definition
  1. adj. having the ability to retain or remember things

  2. adj. tending to keep hold of something physically or mentally

Structure
re <back, again>tent <hold>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "retentive" originates from Latin retentivus, derived from retent- (past participle stem of retinēre, meaning "to hold back"). The morpheme "re-" signifies repetition or backward action, while "tent" comes from tenēre (to hold). The suffix "-ive" forms adjectives indicating tendency or capacity. Thus, "retentive" literally means "having the tendency to hold back or retain."

Examples
  1. She has a retentive memory and rarely forgets details.

  2. The soil here is highly retentive of moisture.

  3. His retentive mind made him an excellent student.

  4. The material is retentive of heat, making it ideal for insulation.

  5. Older adults often worry about losing their retentive abilities.