retractile

[ri-trak-til] / rɪˈtræk tɪl /

NOUN

claw

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fingernail paw tentacle

STRONG

barb clapperclaw fang grapnel grappler hook manus nipper pincer spur talon unguis

WEAK

cant hook nail claw ungula

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A short distance behind the head were two tremendous reddish-brown fins, with strong supporting spines that seemed to terminate in retractile claws.

From The Terror from the Depths by Wright, Sewell Peaslee

Numerous pedal tentacles around the mouth, which are retractile within sheaths.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 5, Slice 6 "Celtes, Konrad" to "Ceramics" by Various

The arteries are highly elastic, being extensile and retractile both in length and breadth.

From Special Report on Diseases of the Horse by Michener, Charles B.

The claws are large, strongly curved, compressed, very sharp, and exhibit the retractile condition in the highest degree.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 5, Slice 4 "Carnegie Andrew" to "Casus Belli" by Various

The jaws were widely extended, so that the sharp retractile teeth were plainly visible, and the forked tongue at intervals was shot forward, and gleamed in the sun.

From The Young Yagers A Narrative of Hunting Adventures in Southern Africa by Reid, Mayne