preserve
verb (used with object)
to keep alive or in existence; make lasting.
had preserved
-
past perfectof preserve.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Administrators said the sale had preserved 733 jobs - but that 484 jobs had been lost and 38 bars had closed after they were not included in the rescue deal.
From BBC ● May 23, 2026
The organization had preserved these cans over many years for quality control but eventually no longer needed them.
From Science Daily ● Apr. 1, 2026
The sticky birch tar plug and waterlogged soil had preserved the bone container and its contents over the centuries.
From Science Magazine ● Feb. 7, 2024
It was one of the grandest and swankiest parties held in generations, with pricey tickets and a level of pomp befitting the figurative coronation of the general who had preserved the Union.
From Salon ● Dec. 24, 2022
But Halliday had preserved his childhood forever, here in the OASIS.
From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline
