retain

To continue to keep, hold, or possess something rather than losing or giving it up.

• The firm managed to retain most of its clients despite the economic downturn.

• Will this fabric retain its bright color after several washes?

To absorb and hold a substance like heat, water, or moisture within itself.

• Dense clay soil tends to retain moisture longer than sandy soil.

• These thick brick walls do not retain heat very well during winter.

To keep facts, details, or memories clearly in mind.

• She retains complex technical information effortlessly after hearing it once.

• How much of that dense lecture did you actually retain?

To hire the professional services of someone, especially an attorney, by paying a preliminary fee.

• The company retained a prominent defense attorney to handle the upcoming audit.

• Have you retained legal counsel for the upcoming negotiations?