retention

noun

re·​ten·​tion ri-ˈten(t)-shən 

1

a

: the act of retaining : the state of being retained

b

: abnormal retaining of a fluid or secretion in a body cavity

2

a

: power of retaining : retentiveness

b

: an ability to retain things in mind

specifically : a preservation of the aftereffects of experience and learning that makes recall or recognition possible

3

: something retained

Examples of retention in a Sentence

the recruitment and retention of good employees

the retention of profits from all sales

pills to offset water retention

the retention of things learned in school

They say the herb promotes memory retention.

Recent Examples on the Web

Educational companies should focus on creating dynamic, engaging environments that encourage participation and retention. —Nina Greenwood, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024

The superstar’s award-winning hair-care line has positioned itself with high-performance formulas to maintain hair strength and promote length retention. —Anaja I. Smith, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Oct. 2024

Trump pledged last week to hire an extra 10,000 Border Patrol agents if he is reelected, calling on Congress to provide money for a 10% pay bump and a $10,000 retention and signing bonus. —Samantha-Jo Roth, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Oct. 2024

The Supreme Court justices up for retention will be on all Arizona voters' ballots. —Miguel Torres, The Arizona Republic, 18 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English retencioun, from Anglo-French, from Latin retention-, retentio, from retinēre to retain — more at retain

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

retention

noun

re·​ten·​tion ri-ˈten-chən 

1

: the act of retaining : the state of being retained

2

: power of retaining

3

: something retained

Medical Definition

retention

noun

re·​ten·​tion ri-ˈten-chən 

1

: the act of retaining: as

a

: abnormal retaining of a fluid or secretion in a body cavity

retention of urine

retention of bile

b

: the holding in place of a tooth or dental replacement by means of a retainer

2

: a preservation of the aftereffects of experience and learning that makes recall or recognition possible

Legal Definition

retention

noun

re·​ten·​tion ri-ˈten-chən 

1

: the act of retaining or the state of being retained

2

: the portion of the insurance on a particular risk not reinsured or ceded by the originating insurer