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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.

But a police lawyer said the sole reason was to preserve public order.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

Their supergenes help preserve the specific adaptations needed for those conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

This will preserve fuel for nurses, shift workers, trades people and miners who rely on driving.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

“Animal sacrifice is a part of root, Jez. Always has been. We are thankful for their life because it helps preserve ours.”

From "Root Magic" by Eden Royce

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