retention

re·ten·tion

noun \ri-ˈten(t)-shən\

Definition of RETENTION

1

a : the act of retaining : the state of being retained b : abnormal retaining of a fluid or secretion in a body cavity

2

a : power of retaining : retentiveness b : an ability to retain things in mind; specifically : a preservation of the aftereffects of experience and learning that makes recall or recognition possible

3

: something retained

Examples of RETENTION

1. the recruitment and retention of good employees
2. the retention of profits from all sales
3. pills to offset water retention
4. the retention of things learned in school
5. They say the herb promotes memory retention.

Origin of RETENTION

Middle English retencioun, from Anglo-French, from Latin retention-, retentio, from retinēre to retain — more at retain

First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with RETENTION

dimension, high-tension, Vincentian