reserve

[rɪˈzɜːv] noun I

1) [C] a supply of something that a country, an organization, or a person can use

Norway's oil reserves[/ex]

We discovered reserves of strength that we didn't realize we had.[/ex]

2) [C] a player who has not been chosen to play in a particular match but who is available to play if they are needed

Syn:

substitute

3) [U] the behaviour of someone who tends not to talk about or show their feelings

4) [C] British

an area of land where wild animals or plants are officially protected

•

in reserve — available to be used[/ex]

Keep a few pounds in reserve to cover unexpected costs.[/ex]

II

verb

reserve */[rɪˈzɜːv]

1) [I/T] to make an arrangement so that something such as a room in a hotel or a seat in a theatre is kept for you to use

We've reserved a table for 7.30.[/ex]

2) [T] to keep something for a particular person, purpose, or situation

This area is reserved for non-smokers.[/ex]

•

reserve judgement — to not form an opinion about someone or something until you have more information[/ex]