Word
retractable
Phoneticsre·tractable
US/ɹiˈtɹæktəbəɫ/
UK/ɹɪtɹˈæktəbəl/
Definition
adj. describing something that can be pulled back or pulled in. You use this for things like pens that you can push to hide the tip or curtains that you can pull up.
adj. capable of being pulled back or drawn in. Often describes mechanical devices or parts that can be retracted into a housing or container.
Examples
“He used a retractable pen to sign the document.”
“The hotel room features retractable blinds that allow guests to control the amount of natural light entering the space.”
“The retractable bridge was designed to allow large ships to pass through the harbor while maintaining a clear path for pedestrians during the day.”
Examples
simple
“He used a retractable pen to sign the document.”
contextual
“The hotel room features retractable blinds that allow guests to control the amount of natural light entering the space.”
complex
“The retractable bridge was designed to allow large ships to pass through the harbor while maintaining a clear path for pedestrians during the day.”
Real-World Examples
“You play as Logan, aka Wolverine, the comic book superhero that can self-heal and has retractable claws.” Etymology
From retract + -able.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/retractable