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keep
/kiːp/
to retain possession or control of something
She asked me to keep her secret.
She wanted me to not share her secret with others.
general
to have or hold something in one's possession
Please keep the door closed.
Make sure the door remains shut.
Often used with objects or abstract concepts.
general
to maintain or preserve something in a particular state
Keep the room clean.
Ensure the room stays tidy.
Can refer to physical or abstract states.
general
to continue to have a particular feeling or attitude
She keeps her spirits up despite the challenges.
She maintains a positive attitude.
Often used with emotions or mental states.
general
to retain someone or something in a particular place or position
The company keeps its employees motivated.
The company ensures its employees stay motivated.
Can refer to people, objects, or abstract concepts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Collocations
'Keep' is often paired with prepositions like 'in', 'up', 'away', etc., to form common phrases. For example, 'keep in touch' means to maintain contact with someone.
Gold Rule
Versatility
'Keep' is a highly versatile verb that can be used in various contexts, from physical possession to abstract states. It is often followed by prepositions to form common collocations.
Word Origin
Old English 'cēpan', meaning 'to seize, hold, or grasp'. Related to Old Norse 'kaupa' (to buy) and Old High German 'koufon' (to buy).
Usage Notes
The verb 'keep' is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, from physical possession to abstract states. It is often followed by prepositions like 'in', 'up', 'away', etc., to form common collocations.
Word Breakdown
keep
to retain or maintain
rootEnglish Dictionary