retain
verb (used with object)
to keep possession of.
had retained
-
past perfectof retain.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.
Trian said at the time that it had retained advisers to determine how to improve returns for Wendy’s investors.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 28, 2026
Despite spending four decades in the environment, the nuclear fuel inside the six examined particles had retained much of its original crystal structure.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 23, 2026
Though the platform later started engaging, she said it had retained a "permissive environment" for hosting extremist content that was "very easy to find".
From BBC ● Jul. 30, 2026
British Columbia said Tuesday it was preparing a separate case, in coordination with the families, and had retained lawyers both in Canada and California.
From Barron's ● Jul. 7, 2026
We had retained a nurse to be there during the week.
From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee
