Reserve
/rɪˈzɜːrv/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo keep something back for future use or for a particular purpose.
/rɪˈzɜːrv/
To keep something back for later use or a special purpose.
I've reserved a table at the restaurant.
💡 Simply: It's like putting something aside, like saving the best cookie for yourself later. Imagine you're going to see a movie - you *reserve* a ticket so nobody else can have your seat.
👶 For kids: To save something for later. Like saving a piece of candy!
More Examples
She reserved her energy for the marathon.
The library reserves books for patrons.
How It's Used
"The company reserves the right to refuse service."
"I reserved a table at the restaurant for tonight."
An amount of something that is kept available for future use.
/rɪˈzɜːrv/
A supply of something that is available for use when needed.
The company has a large financial reserve.
💡 Simply: Think of it as a backup stash! Like the extra supplies a team keeps in case they run out of something. If the power goes out, you might rely on a *reserve* of candles.
👶 For kids: A place or a thing that is saved for later. Like a backup toy!
More Examples
The park is a wildlife reserve.
The team has a reserve player in case of injury.
How It's Used
"The country has significant gold reserves."
"The national park is a nature reserve."
A feeling of cautiousness or reluctance; reticence.
/rɪˈzɜːrv/
A feeling of cautiousness or reluctance.
Her natural reserve made it difficult to get close to her.
💡 Simply: It’s like a wall around yourself. If you are *reserved*, you might be a little shy or not want to share too much about yourself with others.
👶 For kids: Being quiet or not showing how you feel. Like keeping your feelings inside.
More Examples
He spoke with a certain reserve about his past.
Despite the offer, he maintained his reserve.
How It's Used
"He spoke with a certain reserve."
"Her reserve made it difficult to get to know her."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
in reserve
Available but not immediately in use; kept for a time of need or when desired.
"We have emergency funds in reserve."
military reserve
A group of soldiers who are not full-time members of the military but who are available to be called up to serve if needed.
"He served in the military reserve for several years."
From Old French *reserver* and Latin *reservāre*, meaning 'to keep back, save, or store'.
Historically, 'reserve' was used in contexts of protection, preservation, and as a military term, indicating a backup force or a guarded area.
Memory tip
Think of a special spot you're *reserving* just for you.
Word Origin
"to keep back, save, or store"