# preservation

/ˌpɹɛzɝˈveɪʃən/ (US) · /pɹɪsəvˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/preservation
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. protecting something

noun · CEFR B2

the act of keeping something safe from damage, decay, or being destroyed.

For teachers: the act of maintaining or protecting something to prevent its destruction or deterioration. Often used in environmental or historical contexts.

- The preservation of old buildings is important for the city's history.
- The society is dedicated to the preservation of local wetlands, ensuring that the delicate ecosystem remains undisturbed by urban development.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'of'.

### 2. state of survival

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the condition of something that has lasted for a long time.

For teachers: the state or quality of being preserved; the condition in which an object has survived.

- The ancient book was in excellent preservation despite its age.
- Archaeologists were astonished by the state of preservation of the wooden tools found deep within the peat bog.

Usage: Commonly used in the phrase 'state of preservation'.

## Examples

- The preservation of old buildings is important for our history.
- Local groups are fighting for the preservation of the wetlands to protect rare bird species from urban development.
- The museum employs advanced climate control systems to ensure the long-term preservation of delicate Renaissance tapestries that would otherwise deteriorate in humid conditions.

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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.