retain

Verb

• keep in one's mind
  • I cannot retain so much information
    

• secure and keep for possible future use or application
  • The landlord retained the security deposit
    
  • I reserve the right to disagree
    

• allow to remain in a place or position or maintain a property or feature
  • We cannot continue several servants any longer
    
  • She retains a lawyer
    
  • The family's fortune waned and they could not keep their household staff
    
  • Our grant has run out and we cannot keep you on
    
  • We kept the work going as long as we could
    
  • She retained her composure
    
  • this garment retains its shape even after many washings
    

• hold back within
  • This soil retains water
    
  • I retain this drug for a long time
    
  • the dam retains the water
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  hold , keep back , hold back , continue , keep , keep on