1. To put money aside for some particular purpose or purchase in the future. We need to start saving for a new car. I've always made a point of saving for unforeseen emergencies.

2. To put something aside or keep something in reserve for someone or for a future use. A noun or pronoun is used between "save" and "for." I know you wanted to be here on Thanksgiving, so I saved some turkey and pumpkin pie for you. The coach seems to be saving his best players for the second half of the game.

3. With the exception of something. Save for one breakout success no one saw coming, the director's films have all been commercial failures. My entire department is just a bunch of idiots! Well, save for Janet—she's all right.