preservation

American  

[prez-er-vey-shuhn] / ˌprɛz ərˈveɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of keeping something in existence.

   The creation, stabilization, and preservation of quality long-term affordable housing is a critical step in maintaining a healthy community.

2. the act or process of keeping something safe from damage or deterioration.

   The facilities include air-conditioned storage vaults for optimum preservation of the historic film archive.

   The natural growth of population continuously presents problems for the preservation of the environment.

3. the process of preparing food or other perishables to resist spoilage or decomposition.

   Historic techniques of food preservation include drying, smoking, pickling, and salting.

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Other Word Forms

• nonpreservation noun

Etymology

Origin of preservation

First recorded in 1400–50; from Medieval Latin praeservātion-, stem of praeservātio “a guarding,” equivalent to praeservāt-, stem of praeservāre + Latin -iō -ion ( def. ); preserve ( def. )

Example Sentences

A nonprofit exists to preserve them, but tour guide Teri Rommelmann said preservation efforts aren’t meant to alter the course of nature and time, but rather to save the work from sinking into the sand.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

On Thursday, he issued a highly unusual document preservation order in light of the department’s confession.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

This can be a highly effective asset preservation strategy, according to The Karp Law Firm, which has offices in Florida.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

But recent rounds suggest he has developed qualities requiring mere preservation to prosper at Augusta.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Also crossing right now: a Desert Storm vet running for immigrant rights and a college student raising funds for National Parks preservation.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Related Words

• care
• conservancy
• conservation
• safeguarding
• safety
• security
• storage