# conserve

/kənˈsɝv/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conserve
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. to protect nature/heritage

verb · CEFR B2

to protect the natural environment or old buildings so they are not destroyed.

For teachers: to protect and preserve the natural environment, historical sites, or cultural heritage from damage or destruction.

- The local community is working hard to conserve the nearby forest.
- Environmentalists are lobbying the government to conserve the remaining wetlands, which serve as a vital habitat for migratory bird species.

Usage: Often used with 'nature', 'wildlife', or 'heritage' as a direct object.

### 2. to save resources

verb · CEFR B2

to use as little water, energy, or money as possible so you do not waste it.

For teachers: to use a resource sparingly to prevent waste or depletion.

- You should turn off the lights to conserve energy when you leave.
- During the drought, residents were instructed to conserve water by limiting outdoor irrigation to once per week.

Usage: Commonly collocates with 'energy', 'water', and 'resources'.

### 3. to remain constant

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

in science, when the total amount of something stays the same during a change.

For teachers: to remain constant in quantity or quality during a physical or chemical process.

- In this reaction, the total mass is conserved even if the shape changes.
- According to the law of physics, energy is always conserved within a closed system, though it may change form.

Usage: Usually used in the passive voice in physics and chemistry contexts.

### 4. fruit jam

noun · CEFR B2

a sweet food made by cooking fruit with sugar, often containing large pieces of fruit.

For teachers: a jam-like preparation of fruit cooked in sugar, typically characterized by the inclusion of whole or large pieces of fruit.

- She served warm scones with a dollop of strawberry conserve.
- The artisanal bakery specializes in apricot conserve, using traditional methods to ensure the fruit retains its texture and vibrant colour.

## Examples

- We should try to conserve water during the summer.
- The local government implemented new laws to conserve the remaining forest and protect endangered species.
- Engineers are developing new battery technologies designed to conserve energy more efficiently during long-distance transport, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the logistics industry.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.