remain

/rɪˈmeɪn/
to stay in place or continue to exist

The old castle remains standing despite centuries of neglect.

The castle has not been destroyed and is still there.


general

to stay in a place or condition without moving or changing

She decided to remain in her hometown after graduation.

She chose not to move away and stayed in her hometown.

The mystery of the lost city remains unsolved.

The mystery has not been solved and still exists.

Often used to describe something that continues to exist or stay in place over time.

general

to continue to exist or be valid

The law remains in effect despite public opposition.

The law is still active and being enforced.

His love for her remains strong after all these years.

His feelings of love have not diminished over time.

Can refer to emotions, laws, or other abstract concepts that persist.

Collocations

remain calmto stay composed and not panicremain silentto not speak or make a soundremain trueto stay loyal or faithful

Related Phrases

remain to be seenphrase
something that is not yet known or decided
remain standingphrase
to continue to exist or be in place

Pro Tip

Common Prepositions

'Remain' is often followed by 'in', 'on', or 'with' to specify location or condition.

Abstract vs. Physical

Can refer to both physical objects and abstract concepts like feelings or laws.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning can vary based on whether it's used for physical objects or abstract concepts.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'remainen', from Old French 'remaindre', from Latin 'remanere' (to stay behind), from 're-' (back) + 'manere' (to stay).

Usage Notes

Can be used in both transitive and intransitive forms. Often followed by prepositions like 'in', 'on', or 'with'.

Word Breakdown

re-
back
prefix
+
-main
to stay
root
English Dictionary