contractibleadj.
/kənˈtraktɪb(ə)l/ Capable of contracting or drawing together; contractile.
ΘΚΠ
the world > space > extension in space > reduction in size or extent > [adjective] > relating to contraction > having property of contracting
contractible1651
contractile1706
1651 H. More Second Lash of Alazanomastix in Enthusiasmus Triumphatus (1656) 266 A spirituall substance..dilatable and contractible.
1678 R. Cudworth True Intellect. Syst. Universe i. v. 833 Which Outward Extension, is..not to be Accounted Body, because Penetrable, Contractable, and Dilatable.
1849–52 Todd's Cycl. Anat. & Physiol. IV. ii. 1058/1 Their quick contractible power.
1873 St. G. Mivart Lessons Elem. Anat. i. 4 The heart..is rhythmically contractible.
Derivatives
conˈtractibleness n.
ΚΠ
1727 N. Bailey Universal Etymol. Eng. Dict. II Contractibleness,..Capableness of being contracted.
conˌtractiˈbility n.
ΘΚΠ
the world > space > extension in space > reduction in size or extent > [noun] > contraction > ability
contractibility1733
contractility1799
1733 J. Arbuthnot Ess. Effects Air Human Bodies 47 By this continual Contractibility and Dilatability by different Degrees of Heat.
1873 W. Lees Acoustics iii. i. 83 The greater expansibility or contractibility of brass than iron.
This entry has not yet been fully updated (first published 1893; most recently modified version published online June 2022).
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adj.1651