Conserve

/kənˈsɜːrv/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a fruit preserve or jelly made by boiling fruit and sugar.
I spread some strawberry conserve on my toast this morning.
verb
to protect from harm or destruction; to keep in good condition or preserve.
We need to conserve our natural resources for future generations.
to use something carefully or sparingly.
It's important to conserve water during the hot summer months.
to maintain in a constant state; to keep unchanged.
The museum aims to conserve its collection of ancient artifacts.

Etymology

From Latin conservare, meaning 'to keep, preserve, retain'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

conserve energy
To use less energy and reduce waste.
conserve water
To limit water usage to preserve it.
conserve nature
To protect and maintain natural environments.

Related Words

conservation
The act of preserving, protecting, or restoring the natural environment.
conservator
A person responsible for the preservation of cultural heritage.

Slang Meanings

To save resources
We need to conserve on our food supply.
To be frugal
He's really trying to conserve cash this month.