1 : to keep safe from injury, harm, or destruction : protect. 2a : to keep alive, intact, or free from decay. b : maintain. 3a : to keep or save from decomposition. b : to can, pickle, or similarly prepare for future use.

Why does preserve mean?

to keep alive or in existence; make lasting: to preserve our liberties as free citizens. to keep safe from harm or injury; protect or spare. to keep up; maintain: to preserve historical monuments. to keep possession of; retain: to preserve one's composure.

What is an example of preserving something?

Preservation is the act of maintaining, protecting or keeping something in existence. An example of preservation is a land trust protecting a forest. An example of preservation is a jar of canned tomatoes. The act of preserving; care to preserve; act of keeping from destruction, decay or any ill.