How Do You Spell RETRACTABLE?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪtɹˈaktəbə͡l] (IPA)

The word "retractable" is spelled /rɪˈtræktəbəl/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The initial "re-" is followed by "tract" and the suffix "-able." The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "cat," and the final syllable is pronounced "-uh-buh-l." The word means capable of being pulled back or withdrawn, and is often used to describe pens, leashes, and other items that can be extended and then retracted.

RETRACTABLE Meaning and Definition

1. Retractable is an adjective that describes something that can be drawn back or pulled in. It pertains to an object or mechanism that has the ability to retract, meaning to move or be drawn back into a more compact or hidden position.

   This term is often used to describe devices, tools, or features that can be extended or deployed when needed and then retracted or withdrawn to a more compact or concealed state. Such objects typically possess a mechanism that allows them to be easily and conveniently adjusted or returned to their original position.

   A retractable item is designed to offer flexibility and convenience by providing a compact and space-saving solution. For instance, retractable pens have a refillable ink cartridge that can be extended out of the pen's body for writing and then retracted back inside when not in use. Similarly, retractable awnings can be extended to provide shade and protection from the sun, and then retracted to save space or for use during inclement weather.

   The concept of retractability is widely employed in technology, engineering, and everyday objects to improve functionality, reduce exposure to potential damage, and enhance portability. It often simplifies storage and transportation while maintaining the usability and durability of the item.

Top Common Misspellings for RETRACTABLE *

• retractible 62.9629629%
• retracable 18.5185185%
• retrackable 11.1111111%
• retratable 7.4074074%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for RETRACTABLE

• retratiable
• unretractable
• retactable
• rectractable
• eetractable
• rettactable
• retractables
• retrictable
• retracteble
• Refrectable
• retraxtible
• retactible
• retracible
• Retrectible
• Rektractate
• Retracteable
• retractal
• Retrctables

Etymology of RETRACTABLE

The word retractable is derived from the verb retract, which comes from the Latin word retractare. The Latin term is a combination of the prefix re- (meaning back or again) and the verb tractare (meaning to draw or to handle). Retractare originally referred to the act of drawing or pulling something back. Over time, the term evolved to include the concept of bringing back words or statements, eventually giving rise to the modern English word retract, as well as its adjectival form, retractable.

Similar spelling words for RETRACTABLE

• retraction,
• retrograde,
• retracted,
• retractor,
• retroactive,
• retractile.