v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Retained p. pr. & vb. n. Retaining. ] [ F. retainir, L. retinere; pref. re- re- + tenere to hold, keep. See Tenable, and cf. Rein of a bridle, Retention, Retinue. ] 1. To continue to hold; to keep in possession; not to lose, part with, or dismiss; to restrain from departure, escape, or the like. “Thy shape invisible retain.” Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] Be obedient, and retain
Unalterably firm his love entire. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] An executor may retain a debt due to him from the testator. Blackstone. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To keep in pay; to employ by a preliminary fee paid; to hire; to engage; as, to retain a counselor. [ 1913 Webster ] A Benedictine convent has now retained the most learned father of their order to write in its defense. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. To restrain; to prevent. [ Obs. ] Sir W. Temple. [ 1913 Webster ]
Retaining wall (Arch. & Engin.), a wall built to keep any movable backing, or a bank of sand or earth, in its place; -- called also retain wall. [ 1913 Webster ]
Syn. -- To keep; hold; restrain. See Keep. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
