I. kənˈsərvəˌtōrē, -sə̄v-, -səiv, -ˌtȯr-, -ri noun
( -es )
Etymology: Latin conservat us + English -ory
1. archaic : a place for the preservation or safekeeping of things
2. : a greenhouse sometimes attached to a dwelling for growing or displaying plants
3.
[Italian conservatorio, from conservato (past participle of conservare to keep, preserve, maintain) (from Latin conservatus ) + -orio -ory (from Latin -orium )]
: a school of advanced standing specializing in one of the fine arts (as music, drama, or dance) and emphasizing technical instruction and practical performance
the Wilkes-Barre Municipal Conservatory
II. adjective
Etymology: Late Latin conservatorius, from Latin conservatus + -orius -ory
: having the quality or power of conserving or preserving : preservative
the conservatory legal protection of wildlife