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retain Synonyms

Another word for retain

Choosing another word for retain depends on context, so the 19 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To continue to have, hold, or use something; to keep possession of rather than losing or giving away.

Usage Example

"Despite the merger, the historic company managed to keep its original name and core staff."

Strongest
keep
maintain
Strong
preserve
hold
hold on to
hang on to
conserve

• verb (Context 2)

To absorb and continue to hold a substance, heat, or moisture.

Usage Example

"Clay soil tends to hold water much longer than sandy soil."

Strongest
hold
Strong
contain
absorb
trap

• verb (Context 3)

To keep facts, information, or experiences in one's memory.

Usage Example

"Students often find it easier to remember new vocabulary when they read it in context."

Strongest
remember
Strong
memorize
recall
recollect

• verb (Context 4)

To secure and pay for the professional services of an expert, especially a lawyer or consultant, often via a preliminary fee.

Usage Example

"The board voted to engage an independent auditing firm to review the financial records."

Strongest
engage
hire
employ
Strong
commission
contract

Opposites of retain

The opposite of retain shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

forget
release
lose
relinquish
dismiss
surrender
fire
forfeit
See all opposites of retain

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Retain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/retain
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