Retainer

Pronunciation: /rɪˈteɪnər/

Definitions of retainer

noun A device used to hold something in place

Example Sentences

A1 I wear a retainer at night to keep my teeth straight.

A2 The orthodontist recommended wearing a retainer after getting my braces off.

B1 She signed a retainer agreement with the lawyer before starting the case.

B2 The company paid a retainer fee to secure the services of the consultant.

C1 The retainer clause in the contract ensured ongoing support from the service provider.

C2 The retainer for the artist guaranteed exclusive representation for a year.

Examples of retainer in a Sentence

formal The lawyer requires a retainer fee before taking on a new client.

informal I had to put down a retainer to secure the services of the contractor.

slang I slipped the bouncer a retainer to let us into the club without waiting in line.

figurative The retainer of knowledge he gained from years of experience proved invaluable in solving the complex problem.

Grammatical Forms of retainer

• plural: retainers
• comparative: more retainer
• superlative: most retainer
• present tense: retain
• future tense: will retain
• perfect tense: have retained
• continuous tense: is retaining
• singular: retainer
• positive degree: retainer
• infinitive: to retain
• gerund: retaining
• participle: retained

Origin and Evolution of retainer

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old French

Story behind the word: The word 'retainer' originated from Old French, specifically from the word 'retenir' which means 'to retain or keep'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of holding back or keeping something, the word 'retainer' evolved over time to also refer to a fee paid in advance to secure services or to a person employed to perform personal services or duties for another.