conserve
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to protect the natural environment or old buildings so they are not destroyed.
v.to protect and preserve the natural environment, historical sites, or cultural heritage from damage or destruction.
Simple“The local community is working hard to conserve the nearby forest.”
In context“Environmentalists are lobbying the government to conserve the remaining wetlands, which serve as a vital habitat for migratory bird species.”
UsageOften used with 'nature', 'wildlife', or 'heritage' as a direct object.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to use as little water, energy, or money as possible so you do not waste it.
v.to use a resource sparingly to prevent waste or depletion.
Simple“You should turn off the lights to conserve energy when you leave.”
In context“During the drought, residents were instructed to conserve water by limiting outdoor irrigation to once per week.”
UsageCommonly collocates with 'energy', 'water', and 'resources'.
- 03 C1 Advanced
v.in science, when the total amount of something stays the same during a change.
v.to remain constant in quantity or quality during a physical or chemical process.
Simple“In this reaction, the total mass is conserved even if the shape changes.”
In context“According to the law of physics, energy is always conserved within a closed system, though it may change form.”
UsageUsually used in the passive voice in physics and chemistry contexts.
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a sweet food made by cooking fruit with sugar, often containing large pieces of fruit.
n.a jam-like preparation of fruit cooked in sugar, typically characterized by the inclusion of whole or large pieces of fruit.
Simple“She served warm scones with a dollop of strawberry conserve.”
In context“The artisanal bakery specializes in apricot conserve, using traditional methods to ensure the fruit retains its texture and vibrant colour.”
“And remember: During an emergency, save your cellphone for only essential uses to conserve battery power.”
“The similarities made him wonder whether strategically protecting surfer spots might also conserve diverse ecosystems in Africa.”
From Middle English conserven, from Old French conserver, from Latin conservare (“to keep, preserve”), from com- (intensive prefix) + servo (“keep watch, maintain”). See also observe.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.