Con*serv"a*to*ry (?), a. [Cf. F. conservatoire, LL. conservatorius.] Having the quality of preserving from loss, decay, or injury.

Con*serv"a*to*ry, n. [Cf. F. conservatoire, LL. conservatorium.] 1. That which preserves from injury. [Obs.] "A conservatory of life." Jer. Taylor.

2. A place for preserving anything from loss, decay, waste, or injury; particulary, a greenhouse for preserving exotic or tender plants.

3. A public place of instruction, designed to preserve and perfect the knowledge of some branch of science or art, esp. music.

• a greenhouse or hothouse for the display of plants
  
• a school of music or drama; a conservatoire