retention

noun

Definition of retentionnext
as in maintenance
the act of keeping something or someone The company's rate of employee retention is 80 percent.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of retention According to his campaign website, his priorities include academic excellence, safe and secure schools, improving teacher pay and retention, career readiness and budget transparency. — Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 7 Aug. 2026 The school districts’ joint lawsuit questioned the legality of the program and predicted immediate detriments to class sizes, staff recruitment and retention and student programming. — Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 7 Aug. 2026 Arison said subscriber retention has remained stronger than expected despite price increases across Grindr's premium membership tiers. — Brandon Gomez, CNBC, 6 Aug. 2026 Salt can also alter soil composition, affecting its nutrient and water retention, so it should be used sparingly on its own as a weed killer. — The Spruce, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for retention
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retention
  1. maintenance
  2. retaining
  3. ownership
  4. support
  5. control
Noun
  • The buildings recognized have generally been threatened by a lack of maintenance, loss of parking and a lack of awareness by the owners of economic incentives available to rehabilitate historic buildings.
    — Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Students can also pursue certifications in aviation maintenance, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, welding, emergency medical services and other health care fields.
    — Leondra Head, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of maintenance
Noun
  • Older people have a harder time producing, retaining, and circulating body heat.
    — Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2026
  • The fabric is the smooth, soft feel that Lululemon is famous for, while still being breathable, sweat-wicking, and shape-retaining.
    — Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Apr. 2026
Definition of retaining
Noun
  • What’s the latest regarding the battle over the ownership of the club?
    — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Iger is a longtime basketball aficionado — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reportedly introduced him to Bay, a former NBA journalist, 30 years ago — but his particular background makes his Lakers ownership a bit strange.
    — Greg Beacham, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of ownership
Noun
  • Not everyone has enough resources and support to turn to in real life, the 22-year-old said.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The edges of your lawn and garden provide the perfect habitat for these plants, while fences and retaining walls can give support to growing poison ivy vines.
    — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of support
Noun
  • Temperature control requires some attention, as the trailers can heat up quickly in direct sunlight and cool dramatically after dark.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Virna Jandiroba just took her down nine times and didn’t do much with that top control.
    — Brett Appley, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of control

Browse Nearby Words

reteaching
retention
retentive
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Cite this Entry

“Retention.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retention. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on retention

Nglish: Translation of retention for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about retention

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