Definition

A person who serves or works for someone, especially in a household, or a device used in dentistry to keep teeth in place after treatment.

Example

After finishing her braces, she wore a retainer to keep her teeth straight.

Conversation

I just got my braces off, and now I need to wear a retainer.

That's exciting! How does it feel so far?

It's a bit uncomfortable, but I know it's important to keep my teeth straight with the retainer.

Definitely! Just remember to wear it as much as you can.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retainer → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "tenere" (meaning to hold). The word refers to something that holds or keeps something back, often used in the context of a person who is retained for service.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'holds back' ('tenere') again ('re-') — that's why a retainer is something that keeps or holds something in place.

Visually Confused Words