retainer

 
Pronunciation: /rɪˈteɪnə/

noun

  • 1a thing that holds something in place: a guitar string retainer
  • 2 (also retaining fee) a fee paid in advance to someone, especially a barrister, in order to secure their services for use when required: he’s on a retainer as a consultant
  • British a reduced rent paid to retain accommodation during a period of non-occupancy.
  • 3a servant, especially one who has worked for a person or family for a long time: faithful family retainers