the preserve of theory and science fiction - what does "the preserve" mean?

[NewHopeR]

"A reservation" only for theory and fiction?

Context:

Black holes, once the preserve of theory and science fiction, are well-established inhabitants of the universe. Observations of the motions of stars orbiting the center of the Milky Way have proved beyond doubt that a black hole 4 million times as massive as the Sun resides there. Many other galaxies are thought to host similarly heavy or even heavier black holes at their centers. Scattered out beyond the center, there are thought to be millions of lighter, stellar-mass black holes, produced when the most massive stars collapse in on themselves at the end of their lives. This week, Science explores the current state of understanding of black holes with a series of Perspectives and Reviews.

MOre:
Inescapable Pull

 

[JMurray]

Re: the preserve of theory and science fiction - what does "the preserve" mean?

preserve, noun, definition #2
Definition of preserve - Oxford Dictionaries (British & World English)

not a teacher

 

[5jj]

Re: the preserve of theory and science fiction - what does "the preserve" mean?

I am closing this thread.

NewHopeR, you have been asked repeatedly to use one or more dictionaries to help you find the answers to your questions. We are happy to help people who have genuine problems with dictionary definitions, but we are not here merely to look up words for other people. Please do not keep asking us to do what you can do for yourself.

 

[BobK]

Re: the preserve of theory and science fiction - what does "the preserve" mean?

I'm flabbergasted that you didn't guess right: in this context, of course, 'preserve' means 'jam' (a bit like 'bread and butter'). (;-))

b