preservation

American  

[prez-er-vey-shuhn] / ˌprɛz ərˈveɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of keeping something in existence.

   The creation, stabilization, and preservation of quality long-term affordable housing is a critical step in maintaining a healthy community.

2. the act or process of keeping something safe from damage or deterioration.

   The facilities include air-conditioned storage vaults for optimum preservation of the historic film archive.

   The natural growth of population continuously presents problems for the preservation of the environment.

3. the process of preparing food or other perishables to resist spoilage or decomposition.

   Historic techniques of food preservation include drying, smoking, pickling, and salting.

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Other Word Forms

• nonpreservation noun

Etymology

Origin of preservation

First recorded in 1400–50; from Medieval Latin praeservātion-, stem of praeservātio “a guarding,” equivalent to praeservāt-, stem of praeservāre + Latin -iō -ion ( def. ); preserve ( def. )

Example Sentences

The ballroom project has faced stiff opposition from historic preservation groups and sections of the public.

From BBC

"Is there really no link between global warming and the preservation of biodiversity or the prevention of air pollution?" the lawyer stated.

From Barron's

Many Californians avoid Mills Act homes because of strict preservation rules, but the couple enjoys the challenge of restoring and caring for their historic house.

From Los Angeles Times

Miles Oglethorpe, formerly of Historic Environment Scotland, is hopeful that advances in paint and steel-coating technology could bring down the cost of preservation and maintenance.

From BBC

It’s built for both the backpack and end table, with detailed descriptions alongside pleas for the land’s preservation.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• care
• conservancy
• conservation
• safeguarding
• safety
• security
• storage