preserve

//prɪˈzɜːrv//
B2Frequency Level 7Neutral
Visual representation of preserve

Verb

preserveInfinitive
preservePresent tense
preservedPast tense
preservedPast participle
preservingPresent participle
preservesThird-person singular
1

To maintain something in its original or existing state; to keep safe from harm, decay, or destruction.

We must preserve our natural environment for future generations.

2

To treat food so as to prevent it from decaying, typically by canning, pickling, or freezing.

She preserved the strawberries by making jam.

3

To keep or maintain a particular condition, right, or privilege.

The new law will preserve the rights of workers.

Noun

preserveSingular
preservesPlural
1

A food product made by cooking fruit with sugar to prevent decay; jam or jelly.

She made strawberry preserve from the fresh berries in her garden.

2

An area of land or water maintained for the protection of wildlife or natural resources.

The forest preserve is home to many endangered species.

3

A sphere of activity regarded as being reserved for a particular person or group.

Cooking has traditionally been seen as the preserve of women.