Reserve Meaning
Reserve Definition & Usage
To set aside or keep something for a particular use or person, often in advance.
Examples
- "I would like to reserve a table for two at 7 PM."
- "The hotel has reserved a special suite for VIP guests."
- "She reserved the last seat on the bus for her friend."
- "Please reserve a spot for me in the meeting tomorrow."
- "Can you reserve tickets for the concert next week?"
To hold or keep something back, often for strategic or future use.
Examples
- "The company reserved a portion of the budget for unforeseen expenses."
- "The government reserved the right to make further changes to the law."
- "She reserved her opinion until she had more facts."
- "The firm has reserved the option to expand into new markets next year."
- "He reserved judgment on the proposal until he received more information."
A supply of something kept for future use, especially when something is needed unexpectedly.
Examples
- "We have a reserve of food for emergencies."
- "The hospital keeps a reserve of medical supplies for crisis situations."
- "The company maintains a cash reserve for unexpected costs."
- "He had a reserve of energy to finish the last few miles of the marathon."
- "The team called on their reserve players to finish the game."
Cultural Context
The word 'reserve' comes from the Latin 'reservare,' meaning 'to keep back or retain.' It has evolved to cover a wide range of uses, from booking services (e.g., reserving a table or a seat) to holding back resources (e.g., cash reserves or reserves of food). The concept of reserving something is deeply embedded in business, hospitality, and legal sectors.
The Last Reserved Seat
Story
The Last Reserved Seat
It was a chilly Thursday evening when Sarah found herself standing in front of the glowing restaurant sign. She had reserved a table for two earlier that week, but when she arrived, the hostess informed her that they were fully booked. 'It’s been a crazy night,' the hostess said with an apologetic smile. Sarah, confused and a little frustrated, pulled out her phone. She quickly showed the reservation confirmation, her name boldly displayed at the top. 'It’s right here. I reserved this table days ago.' The hostess’s eyes widened in recognition. 'Oh, I see. We’ve reserved a spot just for you. Please follow me.' Sarah followed the hostess to a cozy corner table, overlooking the softly lit street outside. Her reservation had indeed been secured, but it was more than just a booking—it was a small piece of control in a world that felt increasingly unpredictable. As she sat down, she took a deep breath. It was a moment of calm, with a seat reserved just for her, and a sense of certainty in the bustling chaos of the evening. She thought to herself, 'Sometimes, having something reserved—whether it's a seat, an opinion, or even time for yourself—makes all the difference in how you approach the world.'
Related Words
