reserves; reserved; reserving
1
: to make arrangements so that you will be able to use or have (something, such as a room, table, or seat) at a later time
We reserved a hotel room.
This table is reserved for someone else.
The seats are reserved under my name.
2
: to keep (something) for a special or future use
We will reserve this wine for a special occasion.
She usually reserved her best dishes for very important dinners.
She spoke in a tone of voice that she usually reserved for her students. [=that she usually only used for her students]
3
: to choose to do (something) at a later time : defer
I will reserve judgment [=will not make a judgment/decision] until I know the full story.
4
: to have or keep (something, such as a right) for possible use at a future time
We reserve the right to make further changes to the agreement if necessary.
plural reserves
1
: a supply of something that is stored so that it can be used at a later time
oil reserves
a cash reserve
He had to call upon his inner reserves of strength to keep going.
2
: a military force that is additional to the regular forces and that is available if it is needed
the army reserve
—often pluralHe is a member of the reserves.
3
: an area of land where animals and plants are given special protection
a forest/wildlife reserve
4
: an area of land where Native Americans live : reservation
a Navajo reserve
5
: the quality of a person who does not express feelings, opinions, etc., in an easy and open way
His natural reserve is sometimes mistaken for unfriendliness.
6
: a player on a team who takes the place of a regular player who is injured or cannot play
the reserves on a football team
Cite this Entry
“Reserve.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/reserve. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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