retention

noun

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re·ten·tion | \ ri-ˈten(t)-shən

Definition of retention

1a : the act of retaining : the state of being retained

b : abnormal retaining of a fluid or secretion in a body cavity

2a : power of retaining : retentiveness

b : an ability to retain things in mind specifically : a preservation of the aftereffects of experience and learning that makes recall or recognition possible

3 : something retained

Examples of retention in a Sentence

the recruitment and retention of good employees the retention of profits from all sales pills to offset water retention the retention of things learned in school They say the herb promotes memory retention.

Recent Examples on the Web That might sound aggressive, if not a tad cutthroat, but showing equal and strong interest in the mental and physical health of your people is crucial to employee retention, especially. — Rachel King, Fortune, 11 May 2022 If your yard is full of weeds, brown patches, or clumps of bare earth that can't seem to grow fresh grass, your lawn probably lacks important nutrients that can foster proper root growth and moisture retention. — Samantha Jones, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2022 The Danville resident would have faced a once-a-decade retention vote in November. — Clare Spaulding, Chicago Tribune, 10 May 2022 Kamado is derived from the word for an old-style Japanese cooking vessel, and today’s grills are known for exceptional insulation and heat retention. — Rachel Klein, Popular Mechanics, 9 May 2022 Jeep spokesperson Ron Kiino said the addition of three rows has increased Grand Cherokee owner retention. — Bymorgan Korn, ABC News, 8 May 2022 The Art of Giving Charitable giving has broken records in the United States in the last two years showing consistent increase both in terms of funds raised and donor retention numbers. — Stephan Rabimov, Forbes, 7 May 2022 According to the company’s website, these coolers contains a good deal of insulation and provides industry-leading ice retention. — Josie Howell | Jhowell@al.com, al, 5 May 2022 Cognitive studies on mood and emotion in learning reveal that, regardless of the activity, taking a lighthearted approach boosts focus and retention. — Kevin Johnson, Outside Online, 4 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'retention.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.