retainer

[rɪˈteɪnər]

retainer Definition

  • 1a fee paid in advance to someone, especially a lawyer, in order to secure their services when required
  • 2a thing that holds something in place, such as a clip or brace
  • 3a person employed to keep watch over someone or something

Using retainer: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "retainer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I paid a retainer to my lawyer to represent me in court.

  • Example

    The orthodontist fitted her with a retainer to keep her teeth straight.

  • Example

    The retainer on the door kept it from slamming shut.

  • Example

    The company hired a retainer to keep an eye on their competitors.

retainer Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for retainer

Phrases with retainer

  • a custom-made device that fits over the teeth to keep them from moving after braces are removed

    Example

    She wore her dental retainer every night to maintain her straight teeth.

  • a structure used to hold back soil and prevent erosion

    Example

    The construction crew built a retainer wall to prevent the hill from sliding down.

  • a contract between a client and a professional that outlines the terms of their working relationship

    Example

    Before starting work, the consultant required the client to sign a retainer agreement.

Origins of retainer

from Old French 'retenir', meaning 'to retain'

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Summary: retainer in Brief

The term 'retainer' [rɪˈteɪnər] has three main meanings: a fee paid in advance to secure someone's services, a thing that holds something in place, and a person employed to keep watch over someone or something. Examples include 'I paid a retainer to my lawyer,' 'The orthodontist fitted her with a retainer,' and 'The company hired a retainer.' Other phrases include 'dental retainer,' 'retainer wall,' and 'retainer agreement.'