The Open Dictionary

contractile

adjective

UK/kənˈtræk.taɪl/
US/kənˈtræk.t̬ᵊl/

Definitions of contractile adjective

  1. medical

    Relating to the ability of body tissue to contract, or the capacity of something to cause contraction.

    • Cardiac muscle is a contractile tissue.

    • The contractile nature of smooth muscle allows it to perform functions in various organs of the body.

    • Contractile proteins are essential for muscle contraction.