adjective
- unable to be drawn back or pulled in
Usage: technical; biology
Examples
- The cat’s claws are nonretractile, unlike those of most felines.
- Cheetahs have nonretractile claws that provide traction while running.
- The nonretractile spines of the porcupine fish remain permanently extended.
- Unlike other big cats, cheetahs possess nonretractile claws for better grip.
- The species has nonretractile talons that cannot be withdrawn into sheaths.