preserve meaning and definition

PRESERVE noun

Definition of preserve (noun)

1. a domain that seems to be specially reserved for someone
   • "medicine is no longer a male preserve"
2. a reservation where animals are protected
3. fruit preserved by cooking with sugar
   • synonyms: conserve, conserves, preserves

PRESERVE verb

Definition of preserve (verb)

1. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last
   • "preserve the peace in the family"; "continue the family tradition"; "Carry on the old traditions"
   • synonyms: bear on, carry on, continue, uphold
   • antonym: cease
2. keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, loss, or destruction
   • "We preserve these archeological findings"; "The old lady could not keep up the building"; "children must be taught to conserve our national heritage"; "The museum curator conserved the ancient manuscripts"
   • synonyms: conserve, keep up, maintain
3. to keep up and reserve for personal or special use
   • "She saved the old family photographs in a drawer"
   • synonyms: save
4. prevent (food) from rotting
   • "preserved meats"; "keep potatoes fresh"
   • synonyms: keep
5. maintain in safety from injury, harm, or danger
   • "May God keep you"
   • synonyms: keep
6. keep undisturbed for personal or private use for hunting, shooting, or fishing
   • "preserve the forest and the lakes"