(of a device, fastening, etc.) serving to hold an object in place

pull the two retaining bars upwards and remove the unit

you can use the same retaining clip that was used to hold the original screwdriver together.

continue to have (something); keep possession of

built in 1830, the house retains many of its original features

Labour retained the seat

absorb and continue to hold (a substance)

limestone is known to retain water

keep (something) in place; hold fixed

the successful design of a cartridge belt requires that the cartridges in it be properly located and retained in that position

keep (someone) engaged in one's service

he has been retained as a freelance