keep

/kip/
noun
  1. The cost of providing food and other basic needs for someone.
    • He earns barely enough for his keep.
    • She pays for her own keep now.
    • The job includes room and keep.
  2. The strongest part of a castle, usually a large tower, where people could defend themselves.
    • The soldiers retreated to the keep when the castle walls were breached.
    • Visitors can explore the ancient keep and its dungeons.
    • From the top of the keep, you can see the entire valley.
verb
  1. To continue to have or hold something; to not give away, lose, or throw away.
    • Please keep your ticket until you leave the theater.
    • She keeps all her childhood toys in a box under the bed.
    • I decided to keep the old photograph because it reminded me of my grandmother.
  2. To cause someone or something to stay in a particular state, condition, or position.
    • Try to keep your desk organized during the school year.
    • This blanket will keep you warm on cold nights.
    • Keep the door closed so the cat doesn't get out.
  3. To continue doing something; to not stop.
    • Keep walking straight until you see the blue house.
    • The baby kept crying even after being fed.
    • I told him to keep trying and not give up.
  4. To store something in a particular place.
    • Where do you keep the extra keys?
    • She keeps her jewelry in a small safe.
    • We keep our winter clothes in the attic during summer.
  5. To write down or record information regularly.
    • The accountant keeps detailed records of all expenses.
    • My grandmother keeps a diary every day.
    • Do you keep a list of books you have read?
  6. To provide someone with food, money, and other things needed to live.
    • The farm keeps the whole village with fresh vegetables.
    • He works hard to keep his family.
    • She earns just enough to keep herself.
  7. To delay someone or make them late.
    • What kept you so long?
    • Sorry I'm late — the meeting kept me.
    • Don't let me keep you from your work.
What does "keep" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean