Re*ten"tive (?), a. [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.
Shak.Re*ten"tive, n. That which retains
or confines; a restraint. [R.] Bp. Hall.