Conserve

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

IPA: /kənˈsɜːrv/

Phonetic: kuhn-SURV

Definitions

• To protect from loss, waste, or destruction.
• To use resources carefully to prevent depletion.
• To preserve food, especially fruit, by cooking with sugar.

Usage Examples

• We must conserve water to ensure future availability.
• Turning off unused appliances helps conserve energy.
• She learned to conserve fruit by making jam.

Etymology

Derived from Latin "conservare," meaning "to keep, preserve," from "con-" (together) + "servare" (to keep safe).

Synonyms

• Preserve
• Protect
• Maintain
• Save

Antonyms

• Waste
• Destroy
• Expend
• Squander

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

British English: /kənˈsɜːv/

American English: /kənˈsɝːv/

Historical Usage

The word "conserve" has been in use since the 14th century, initially in the context of protecting valuable resources and later expanding to food preservation and environmental conservation.

Cultural Nuances

In environmental discussions, "conserve" is key to sustainability. In culinary traditions, it refers to preserved fruit spreads or jams.

More Information

Conservation efforts worldwide focus on protecting natural resources, including water, energy, and biodiversity, ensuring sustainability for future generations.