retain
[ri-teyn]
verb (used with object)
to keep possession of.
to continue to use, practice, etc.: to retain an old custom.
to continue to hold or have: to retain a prisoner in custody; a cloth that retains its color.
to keep in mind; remember.
to hold in place or position.
to engage, especially by payment of a preliminary fee: to retain a lawyer.
Origin of retain
1350–1400; Middle English reteinen < Old French retenir < Latin retinēre to hold back, hold fast, equivalent to re- re- + -tinēre, combining form of tenēre to hold
Synonyms for retain
Antonyms for retain
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Related Words for retainment
supply, conservation, upkeep, preservation, care, restriction, booking, aliment, continuation, bacon, livelihood, alimony, living, alimentation, resources, food, subsistence, provision, bread, continuanceretain
verb (tr)
Word Origin for retain
C14: from Old French retenir, from Latin retinēre to hold back, from re- + tenēre to hold
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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retain
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper