retainer

US /rɪˈteɪ.nɚ/
UK /rɪˈteɪ.nɚ/
"retainer" picture
1.

a fee paid in advance to someone, especially a lawyer, to secure or keep their services when required

:
•
The company paid a large retainer to the law firm.
•
She works on a retainer basis for several clients.
:
feeadvancedeposit
2.

a device that holds something in place

:
•
The dental retainer helps keep her teeth straight.
•
Make sure the battery retainer is securely fastened.
:
holderfastenerclamp
3.

a servant or dependent in a wealthy or noble household

:
•
The old lord still had a few loyal retainers.
•
She was a trusted retainer in the royal court.
:
attendantservantdependentaide
:
retainretained earnings