English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word reserve in English

What does reserve mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

reserve

US /rɪˈzɝːv/
UK /rɪˈzɝːv/
"reserve" picture

Noun

1.

a supply of something kept available for future use

Example:
•
The country has large oil reserves.
•
She kept a reserve of emergency supplies in the basement.
Synonym:
stockstorecachehoardsupply
2.

a place set aside for a special purpose

Example:
•
The wildlife reserve is home to many rare species.
•
They established a nature reserve to protect the local ecosystem.
Synonym:
sanctuarypreserveparkrefuge
3.

a feeling of shyness or caution

Example:
•
He spoke with some reserve about his past.
•
Her initial reserve soon faded as she got to know them.
Synonym:
restraintreticenceshynessdiffidencecaution

Verb

1.

to keep something for a particular purpose or person

Example:
•
Please reserve a table for two at 7 PM.
•
We need to reserve some funds for emergencies.
Synonym:
bookpre-bookset asidekeephold
2.

to refrain from using or exercising (a right, power, or privilege)

Example:
•
The company decided to reserve its right to take legal action.
•
He chose to reserve his opinion until all the facts were known.
Synonym:
retainhold backwithholdkeep back

Adjective

1.

kept for a special or future use

Example:
•
The reserve parachute is a backup in case of emergency.
•
They have a reserve team ready to play if needed.
Synonym:
backupspareadditionalextra
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Related Word:
reservedreservationreserve teamreserve currencyforeign exchange reserves