Dictionary definition · reserve
noun
- formality and propriety of manner
- something kept back or saved for future use or a special purpose
- an athlete who plays only when a starter on the team is replaced
- (medicine) potential capacity to respond in order to maintain vital functions
- a district that is reserved for particular purpose
- armed forces that are not on active duty but can be called in an emergency
- the trait of being uncommunicative; not volunteering anything more than necessary
verb
- hold back or set aside, especially for future use or contingency"they reserved their applause in anticipation"
- give or assign a resource to a particular person or cause"I will earmark this money for your research"
- obtain or arrange (for oneself) in advance"We managed to reserve a table at Maxim's"
- arrange for and reserve (something for someone else) in advance"reserve me a seat on a flight"
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).