retain in WordNet English dictionary

1. allow to remain in a place or position or maintain a property or feature
   "We cannot continue several servants any longer"; "She retains a lawyer"; "The family's fortune waned and they could not keep their household staff"; "Our grant has run out and we cannot keep you on"; "We kept the work going as long as we could"; "She retained her composure"; "this garment retains its shape even after many washings"
   retain  continue  keep  keep on 
   
2. secure and keep for possible future use or application
   "The landlord retained the security deposit"; "I reserve the right to disagree"
   retain  hold  keep back  hold back 
   
3. keep in one's mind
   "I cannot retain so much information"
   retain 
   
4. hold back within
   "This soil retains water"; "I retain this drug for a long time"; "the dam retains the water"
   retain