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
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.
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'
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.'
