Retentive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
retentive
[rษชหtษntษชv ]
Definitions
memory
Having the ability to retain information, memories, or knowledge for a long period of time.
Synonyms
memorable, recalling, recollective.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| retentive |
Best used when referring to the ability to remember information and keep it in the memory for a long time. Particularly used to describe someone's memory or a system designed to retain information.
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| memorable |
Suitable when talking about something that is worth remembering because it is special or remarkable. Often used to describe experiences, events, or moments.
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| recalling |
Used when referring to the act of bringing a memory back to one's mind. Often used in contexts where someone is actively trying to remember something specific.
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| recollective |
Appropriate when referring to the power of recollecting or calling back past experiences to mind. It is often used in literary contexts or intellectual discussions about memory.
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Examples of usage
- His retentive memory allowed him to easily recall details from his childhood.
- She has a retentive mind, always remembering even the smallest details.
behavior
Tending to hold onto or keep things, not easily letting go.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| retentive |
Used primarily in academic or scientific contexts, often to describe someone's capability to retain information or details.
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| possessive |
Generally used in emotional contexts to describe someone who is excessively attached to or controlling over others, usually in relationships. This word often has a negative connotation.
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| clingy |
This term is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who is overly dependent on others, often needing constant attention or affection. It usually has a negative connotation.
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| hoarding |
Used to describe someone who accumulates a large number of items and finds it difficult to discard them. Often associated with a mental health condition and has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The child was very retentive with her toys, not wanting to share with others.
- His retentive nature made it difficult for him to throw away old belongings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that people with high retentive abilities often use mnemonic devices to enhance their memory.
- Scientists have found that emotional connections can significantly boost retentive capacity, making memories easier to recall.
- Sleep plays a crucial role in retention; adequate rest allows the brain to consolidate and strengthen memories.
Education
- Teachers often employ interactive and hands-on learning techniques to improve students' retentive skills.
- Spaced repetition, a learning technique spaced over time, has been shown to enhance long-term retention of information.
- The retentive abilities of a student can significantly affect their academic performance, particularly in subjects that require memorization.
Pop Culture
- In many movies about schools, the 'smart kid' character often has retentive abilities, displaying impressive recall of facts.
- Popular memory competitions showcase individuals with extraordinary retentive skills, pushing the limits of what we think is possible.
- Brain training apps frequently advertise how they can improve your retentive memory through engaging puzzles and exercises.
Technology
- Artificial intelligence systems are designed to have 'retentive' features by storing large amounts of data for retrieval.
- Cloud storage employs retentive principles by holding vast amounts of information accessible at any time.
- The evolution of memory storage in computers echoes human retentiveness, with innovations enabling more efficient data retrieval.
Origin of 'retentive'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'retinere', meaning 'to hold back', reflecting the ability to keep information.
- It was first used in the English language around the 15th century, originally describing physical objects that can hold something.
- In psychology, the term evolved to describe mental capacity, particularly concerning memory.
The word 'retentive' originates from the Latin word 'retentivus', which is derived from 'retentus' meaning 'held back'. The concept of retaining or holding onto something has been associated with 'retentive' throughout history. The word has evolved over time to describe both memory and behavior characteristics.