adj., n., & prep.
--adj. (often in comb.) making economical use of (labour-saving).
--n.
1. anything that is saved.
2 an economy (a saving in expenses).
3 (usu. in pl.) money saved.
--prep.
1. with the exception of; except (all saving that one).
2 without offence to (saving your presence).
Phrases and idioms:
saving clause Law a clause containing a stipulation of exemption etc. saving grace
1. the redeeming grace of God.
2 a redeeming quality or characteristic. savings account a deposit account. savings bank a bank receiving small deposits at interest and returning the profits to the depositors. savings certificate Brit. an interest-bearing document issued by the Government for the benefit of savers.
Etymology: ME f. SAVE(1): prep. prob. f. SAVE(2) after touching