Keep
/kiːp/
Definitions
4 meaningsTo retain possession or control of something; to not give up or lose.
/kiːp/
To retain possession of something.
She kept the promise she made.
💡 Simply: Keeping is like holding onto your favorite toy or your allowance. You don't want to let it go!
👶 For kids: To have and not give away.
More Examples
Can you keep the secret?
He kept the winning lottery ticket.
How It's Used
"Keep the change."
"I need to keep my passport safe."
To continue or persist in doing something.
/kiːp/
To continue doing something.
Keep trying, you'll get it eventually.
💡 Simply: Keeping is like when you keep playing a game even if you are losing. You keep going!
👶 For kids: To do something for a long time.
More Examples
Keep working hard and you will succeed.
I'll keep you updated on the progress.
How It's Used
"Keep running until you reach the finish line."
"I need to keep practicing my guitar."
To store or save something in a safe or appropriate place.
/kiːp/
To store or save something.
Keep the valuables in the safe.
💡 Simply: Keeping is like putting your leftovers in the fridge so they stay good to eat. You keep them safe!
👶 For kids: To put something somewhere to save it.
More Examples
You should keep this information private.
He keeps his old toys in the attic.
How It's Used
"Keep your receipts for tax purposes."
"Keep the milk in the refrigerator."
To delay or prevent someone or something from doing something.
/kiːp/
To delay or prevent someone from doing something.
The bad weather kept us indoors.
💡 Simply: Keeping is like when your parents say, "I'm keeping you in" (or, keeping you from playing outside). You're not allowed.
👶 For kids: To stop someone from doing something.
More Examples
Her injury kept her from competing.
The traffic kept me from arriving on time.
How It's Used
"This rain is keeping me from going outside."
"He kept me waiting for hours."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully; to pay attention to.
"The babysitter kept a close eye on the children playing in the park."
keep in touch
To maintain communication or contact.
"Let's keep in touch after the conference."
keep up with
To stay informed about or abreast of something; to not fall behind.
"It's hard to keep up with all the latest news."
From Old English *cēpan* (to observe, guard, keep), from Proto-Germanic *kaupijaną* (to observe, look at).
Used since Old English, the word 'keep' has consistently meant to retain, guard, and maintain.
Memory tip
Imagine holding onto a precious object; you are keeping it.
Word Origin
"to observe, guard"