retain
retain Lexical Profile
retain Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To continue to have, hold, or use something; to keep possession of rather than losing or giving away.
"Despite the merger, the historic company managed to retain its original name and core staff."
To absorb and continue to hold a substance, heat, or moisture.
"Clay soil tends to retain water much longer than sandy soil."
To keep facts, information, or experiences in one's memory.
"Students often find it easier to retain new vocabulary when they read it in context."
To secure and pay for the professional services of an expert, especially a lawyer or consultant, often via a preliminary fee.
"The board voted to retain an independent auditing firm to review the financial records."
• Rhymes for retain
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'retenir', which derives from Latin 'retinere' (to hold back, keep, or preserve), formed from 're-' (back) and 'tenere' (to hold).