conservation
UK: ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən | US: ˌkɑːnsərˈveɪʃən
n. the act or process of protecting and preserving natural resources, wildlife, or cultural heritage.
n. the careful management of resources to avoid waste or depletion.
n. (Physics) the principle that certain quantities remain constant in a closed system.
The word "conservation" stems from the Latin conservare (con- "together" + servare "to keep, guard"), reflecting the idea of collective preservation. It entered English via Old French conservacion in the 14th century, initially referring to spiritual or medical preservation. By the 19th century, it gained ecological and scientific meanings, aligning with modern usage. The morpheme "conserve" retains its core sense of safeguarding, while "-ation" nominalizes the action.
Wildlife conservation efforts have saved several endangered species.
Energy conservation reduces household utility costs.
The museum focuses on the conservation of ancient artifacts.
The law of conservation of energy is fundamental in physics.
Water conservation is critical during droughts.