Re*tain" (?), 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.]
1.
To continue to hold; to keep in possession; not to lose, part with, or dismiss; to retrain from departure, escape, or the like.
"Thy shape invisible
retain."
Shak.
Be obedient, and retain
Unalterably firm his love entire.
Milton.
An executor may retain a debt due to him from the testator.
Blackstone.
2.
To keep in pay; to employ by a preliminary fee paid; to hire; to engage; as, to retain a counselor.
A Benedictine convent has now retained the most learned father of their order to write in its defense.
Addison.
3.
To restrain; to prevent.
[Obs.]
Sir W. Temple.
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.
Syn. -- To keep; hold; retrain. See Keep.
© Webster 1913.
Re*tain", v. i.
1.
To belong; to pertain.
[Obs.]
A somewhat languid relish, retaining to bitterness.
Boyle.
2.
To keep; to continue; to remain.
[Obs.]
Donne.
© Webster 1913.