Retainers

Retainers, in a multifaceted sense, refer to individuals or objects kept in service, support, or possession. Historically, this term commonly described servants, assistants, or loyal followers associated with a person of higher standing. Modernly, it expands to encompass financial arrangements where a professional receives a periodic fee for their services, securing their availability for future needs. It also can indicate mechanisms or devices that hold something in place, ensuring its secure positioning or function. The breadth of meaning highlights the core concept of 'keeping' or 'holding' something or someone in a particular role or state.

Retainers meaning with examples

• In the medieval court, numerous retainers, including knights, squires, and personal attendants, were vital to a lord's power and prestige, performing duties that ranged from combat and administration to domestic chores. The large number of retainers showcased the Lord's dominance. Without these loyal retainers, the medieval times may have taken a different turn in history.
• The company agreed to pay a legal retainer to ensure they could call on their lawyer's expertise whenever a crisis arose. The monthly retainer ensured legal counsel was always available, providing peace of mind and safeguarding the company's interests. This agreement prevented possible delays or unavailability.
• The dentist used a retainer to keep the patient's teeth aligned after the braces were removed. This device was crucial for preventing the teeth from shifting back to their original position, ultimately preserving the investment in the orthodontic work and smile. A retainer is critical to use.
• The museum's collection included several ancient retainers, designed to hold scrolls and other valuable artifacts securely, to protect the artifacts from exposure to the public and also to secure it from any mishandling by the public. Preserving and protecting the past through retainers allows history to have a chance.