Retention \Re*ten"tion\, n. [L. retentio: cf. F. r['e]tention.
   See Retain.]
   1. The act of retaining, or the state of being ratined.
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   2. The power of retaining; retentiveness.
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            No woman's heart
            So big, to hold so much; they lack retention.
                                                  --Shak.
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   3. That which contains something, as a tablet; a ???? of
      preserving impressions. [R.] --Shak.
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   4. The act of withholding; retraint; reserve. --Shak.
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   5. Place of custody or confinement.
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   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.
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   Retention cyst (Med.), a cyst produced by obstruction of a
      duct leading from a secreting organ and the consequent
      retention of the natural secretions.
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