# retainer

/ɹiˈteɪnɝ/ (US) · /ɹɪtˈeɪnɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/retainer
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a fee you pay in advance to a professional, like a lawyer, to make sure they are available to work for you when you need them.

For teachers: a preliminary fee paid to a professional, such as an attorney or consultant, to secure their services or ensure their future availability. Often refers to a recurring payment in a long-term service agreement.

## Examples

- The lawyer asked for a five-thousand-dollar retainer before starting the case.
- The consulting firm remains on a monthly retainer to provide advice whenever the CEO requests it.
- While some clients prefer hourly billing, others find that a fixed annual retainer offers more predictable costs and guarantees priority access to the firm's senior partners.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'on' ('on retainer') to describe the state of being hired in advance.

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