Synonyms for Retain
Definition of retain
verb
- hold back within; "This soil retains water"; "I retain this drug for a long time"; "the dam retains the water"
- allow to remain in a place or position or maintain a property or feature; "We cannot continue several servants any longer"; "She retains a lawyer"; "The family's fortune waned and they could not keep their household staff"; "Our grant has run out and we cannot keep you on"; "We kept the work going as long as we could"; "She retained her composure"; "this garment retains its shape even after many washings"
- secure and keep for possible future use or application; "The landlord retained the security deposit"; "I reserve the right to disagree"
5 synonyms found
Writing tips for "retain"
Choosing the right synonym depends on context, tone, and audience. Words like continue, engage, hold can replace "retain" depending on the shade of meaning you need. In poetry and songwriting, swapping synonyms lets you match a rhyme scheme or meter without changing your meaning. In prose, varying your word choice avoids repetition and keeps readers engaged.
With 5 alternatives available, "retain" gives you flexibility across registers — from formal to casual, from literary to conversational. Try pairing these synonyms with our rhyme finder to discover words that both mean and sound like what you need.
"Retain" in song lyrics
See how retain is used in real songs:
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"Material things they couldn't retain"
2 Live Crew — You Got Larceny -
"Shout the name then disappear like no-ones, but I'll remain and I'll retain"
The Grouch — Struggle Baby -
"Has a lot of good advice to retain"
Jedi Mind Tricks — Target Practice