reservation

/ˌrɛzərˈveɪʃən/
nounIntermediate
formal

An arrangement to have something (like a table, room, or seat) held for you at a later time, typically requiring payment or a deposit.

We made a reservation at the restaurant for 7 PM.

They canceled their reservation at the hotel due to a change in plans.

💡

Common in hospitality, travel, and dining contexts.

⚖️Law
formal

A formal declaration or statement expressing a particular opinion or attitude, often in a political or diplomatic context.

The government issued a reservation about the proposed legislation.

The treaty includes a reservation from one of the signatory countries.

💡

Used in legal and diplomatic contexts to express dissent or conditions.

Collocations

make a reservationto book something in advancecancel a reservationto void a previously made bookingconfirm a reservationto verify a booking

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

on reservationphrase
living or located on Native American land

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

Use 'reservation' in formal contexts like dining or travel. For casual bookings, 'booking' is also common.

Gold Rule

Confirmation

Always confirm reservations to avoid misunderstandings.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'réservation,' from Latin 'reservatio,' meaning 'a keeping back, reserve.'

📝Usage Notes

In American English, 'reservation' can also refer to an area of land set aside for Native American tribes.

Word Breakdown

reserv
to keep back or hold
root
+
-ation
the act or process of
suffix
English Dictionary