Re‐ten″tion (?), n. [L. retentio: cf. F. rétention. See Retain.] 1. The act of retaining, or the state of being ratined.
2. The power of retaining; retentiveness.
No woman's heart
So big, to hold so much; they lack retention. Shak.
3. That which contains something, as a tablet; a ���� of preserving impressions. Shak.
4. The act of withholding; retraint; reserve. Shak.
5. Place of custody or confinement.
6. (Law) The right of withholding a debt, or of retaining property until a debt due to the person claiming the right be duly paid; a lien. Erskine. Craig.
Retention cyst(Med.), a cyst produced by obstruction of a duct leading from a secreting organ and the consequent retention of the natural secretions.