GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Retain , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Retained ; p. pr. & vb. n. Retaining.] [F. retainir, L. retinere; pref. re- re- + tenere to hold, keep. See Tenable, and cf. Rein of a bridle, Retention, Retinue.]
   To continue to hold; to keep in possession; not to lose, part with, or dismiss; to restrain from departure, escape, or the like. “Thy shape invisible retain.”
   Shak.
   
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   Be obedient, and retain
   Unalterably firm his love entire.
   Milton.
   
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   An executor may retain a debt due to him from the testator.
   Blackstone.
   
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   To keep in pay; to employ by a preliminary fee paid; to hire; to engage; as, to retain a counselor.
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   A Benedictine convent has now retained the most learned father of their order to write in its defense.
   Addison.
   
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   To restrain; to prevent. [Obs.]
   Sir W. Temple.
   
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   Retaining wall (Arch. & Engin.), a wall built to keep any movable backing, or a bank of sand or earth, in its place; -- called also retain wall.
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   Syn. -- To keep; hold; restrain. See Keep.
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2.       
   Retain, v. i.
   To belong; to pertain. [Obs.]
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   A somewhat languid relish, retaining to bitterness.
   Boyle.
   
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   To keep; to continue; to remain. [Obs.]
   Donne.
   
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