1. a fee paid in advance to secure the services of a professional
Usage: legal; business
2. a removable dental device used to keep teeth in position after orthodontic treatment
Usage: medical
3. a servant or follower of a person of rank
Usage: historical

Examples

• The lawyer required a $5,000 retainer before taking the case.
• She paid a retainer to secure the architect’s services.
• The orthodontist gave him a retainer to wear at night.
• He forgot to put in his retainer and his teeth shifted slightly.
• The medieval lord traveled with his retainers.
• The wealthy merchant employed several retainers at his estate.
• My dentist said I need to wear my retainer for six months.
• The attorney’s retainer agreement outlined all fees and services.