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Definitions

preserve

[pri-zurv] / prɪˈzɜrv /
VERB
care for, maintain; continue
Synonyms
STRONGEST
conserve defend freeze keep perpetuate protect retain safeguard save secure store sustain uphold
STRONG
bottle can cure evaporate guard mothball mummify pickle process refrigerate season shelter shield
WEAK
keep up put up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abandon attack endanger give up halt harm hurt injure let go lose neglect release spend squander stop use waste
STRONG
forget
WEAK
destroy ruin

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.

Seeing virtually no hope of acquittal, Brown’s attorneys were desperate to preserve the possibility of commutation.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

Chromosomal inversions do more than preserve helpful traits.

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

The agreement provided Intel access to equity-like capital while allowing it to preserve its balance sheet and focus on strategic priorities.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

But De Zerbi faces a battle to be accepted as the club fights to preserve its Premier League status.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

We would put on fresh, dry clothes, making sure all the while that no parts of our bodies showed, so as to preserve our modesty.

From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.