conserves; conserved; conserving
1
: to keep (something) safe or from being damaged or destroyed
The organization works to conserve [=save] our national forests/wildlife.
a scientist who is studying ways to conserve [=preserve] biological diversity
2
: to use (something) carefully in order to prevent loss or waste
With so little rain, everyone had to conserve water.
We need to conserve our natural resources.
Don't run around too much—you need to conserve your strength.
conserving fuel/energy
plural conserves
: a sweet food made by cooking pieces of fruit with sugar
Cite this Entry
“Conserve.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/conserve. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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