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 invisibleretain."

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.

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