ret·i·nac·u·lum (r t n- k y -lm)n. pl. ret·i·nac·u·la (-l ) Biology A band or bandlike structure that holds an organ or a part in place. [Latin retin  culum, band, tether : retin re, to restrain; see retain + -culum, suff. denoting instruments.]ret i·nacu·lar (-lr) adj. |
retinaculum [ˌrɛtɪˈnækjʊləm]
n pl -la [-lə]
1. connection or retention or something that connects or retains
2. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Zoology) Zoology a small hook that joins the forewing and hind wing of a moth during flight
[C18 (a surgical instrument used in castration): Latin, from rētinēre to hold back]
retinacular adj
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