TENA'CIOUS, a. [L. tenax, from teneo, to hold.]
1. Holding fast, or inclined to hold fast; inclined to retain what is in possession; as men tenacious of their just rights. Men are usually tenacious of their opinions, as well as of their property.
2. Retentive; apt to retain long what is committed to it; as a tenacious memory.
3. Adhesive; apt to adhere to another substance; as oily, glutinous or viscous matter. Few substances are to tenacious as tar.
4. Niggardly; close fisted.
