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Synonyms

in reserve

Idioms  
  1. Kept back, set aside, or saved. For example, We have a fair amount of cash in reserve, or The coach decided to keep the best player in reserve until the last quarter. [Late 1600s]


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.

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As of November, a total of 58 B-52Hs are in the military’s active force, with another 18 in reserve, according to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 16, 2026

What's absolutely fascinating about this game is the options that Clarke has and the way he's talking about the utilisation of his bench, hinting that he might keep a heavy hitter in reserve.

From BBC Jun. 13, 2026

Third, it was safer to have capital loaned out than in reserve, where it could be pillaged.

From The Wall Street Journal May 5, 2026

Its combat fleet also includes Russian MiG-29s and Belarusian Sukhoi Su-27s, most of which are inoperative or in reserve.

From Barron's Apr. 22, 2026

There's plenty of oxygen in the Hab, and plenty more in reserve.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

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