Need another word for Retain? Use these synonyms of Retain from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
keep
maintain
preserve
conserve
hold
save
reserve
withhold
sustain
support
uphold
continue
prolong
perpetuate
protect
defend
guard
shelter
harbor
cherish
treasure
cling
adhere
stick
grasp
grip
cling to
hold on to
hang on to
keep up
maintain
preserve
store
stockpile
amass
accumulate
hoard
retain
keep back
set aside
lay aside
put aside
save up
reserve
hold in reserve
Meaning of Retain
The primary meaning of the word "Retain" is to keep something in a particular state or position.
Definitions
- To keep something in a particular state or position
- * To keep someone or something in a particular role or position
- * To keep a record or memory of something
- * To pay or employ someone to do a particular job
Etymology of Retain
The word "Retain" comes from the Old French word "retenir", which is derived from the Latin words "re" (meaning "again" or "anew") and "tenere" (meaning "to hold")
Historically, the word "Retain" has been used since the 14th century to mean "to keep" or "to hold"
Example Uses
- The company will retain its current staff despite the economic downturn
- * She struggled to retain her balance on the slippery floor
- * The new policy aims to retain customers by offering loyalty rewards
- * The lawyer was retained by the family to handle their case