reserve meaning and definition

RESERVE noun

Definition of reserve (noun)

1. formality and propriety of manner
   • synonyms: modesty
2. something kept back or saved for future use or a special purpose
   • synonyms: backlog, stockpile
3. an athlete who plays only when a starter on the team is replaced
   • synonyms: second-stringer, substitute
4. (medicine) potential capacity to respond in order to maintain vital functions
5. a district that is reserved for particular purpose
   • synonyms: reservation
6. armed forces that are not on active duty but can be called in an emergency
   • synonyms: military reserve
7. the trait of being uncommunicative; not volunteering anything more than necessary
   • synonyms: reticence, taciturnity

RESERVE verb

Definition of reserve (verb)

1. hold back or set aside, especially for future use or contingency
   • "they held back their applause in anticipation"
2. give or assign a resource to a particular person or cause
   • "I will earmark this money for your research"; "She sets aside time for meditation every day"
   • synonyms: allow, appropriate, earmark, set aside
3. obtain or arrange (for oneself) in advance
   • "We managed to reserve a table at Maxim's"
4. arrange for and reserve (something for someone else) in advance
   • "reserve me a seat on a flight"; "The agent booked tickets to the show for the whole family"; "please hold a table at Maxim's"
   • synonyms: book, hold