Erectile
(adjective)
- Capable of becoming rigid or stiff, especially with an influx of blood.
- Capable of being raised up or stiffened.
Origin:
From latin erectus ("upright") + -ile.
Examples:
- The penis has an erectile tissue that enables it to become stiff during sexual arousal.
- The plant's leaves have an erectile capacity that enables them to face towards the sun.
- The feathers of the bird have an erectile ability that allows it to change its shape for flight.
- The antennae of the insect have an erectile ability that enables it to sense its environment.
- The fins of the fish have an erectile property that enables them to change direction while swimming.