OpenSynonym

keeps

/kiːps/

VERB

1. Retaining or continuing to possess something

To continue to have, hold, or retain something rather than giving it away, losing it, or disposing of it.

1.1. Retaining possession of something

Refers to continuing to possess or hold something, such as an object, property, document, or personal belonging.

Synonyms

  • retains
  • holds
  • possesses
  • owns
  • holds on to
  • hangs on to
  • keeps hold of

Antonyms

Examples

  • She keeps all the letters she receives from her friends.
  • He keeps his old photographs in a wooden box.
  • The company keeps copies of all important documents.

Related Words

1.2. Saving or storing something for future use

Refers to setting aside or storing money, supplies, food, or other resources for later use rather than using or spending them immediately.

Synonyms

  • saves
  • stores
  • sets aside
  • reserves
  • stockpiles
  • preserves
  • puts away
  • hoards

Antonyms

  • spends
  • uses up
  • consumes
  • depletes
  • squanders
  • wastes

Examples

  • She keeps some money in a separate account for emergencies.
  • The farmer keeps enough food to last through the winter.
  • The warehouse keeps extra supplies for unexpected demand.

Related Words

VERB

2. Maintaining or preserving a particular condition

To cause or allow someone or something to remain in a particular state, condition, position, or situation.

2.1. Maintaining a condition or state

Refers to ensuring that someone or something continues to remain in a desired or existing condition, such as cleanliness, order, health, or readiness.

Synonyms

  • maintains
  • preserves
  • sustains
  • conserves
  • upholds
  • retains
  • continues

Antonyms

Examples

  • She keeps her house clean and well organized.
  • The company keeps its equipment in excellent condition.
  • He keeps his garden healthy by watering the plants regularly.

Related Words

2.2. Preventing someone or something from changing or moving

Refers to controlling, restraining, or holding someone or something in a particular position or condition, often to prevent unwanted movement or change.

Synonyms

  • holds
  • restrains
  • contains
  • controls
  • confines
  • constrains
  • checks
  • curbs

Antonyms

  • releases
  • frees
  • liberates
  • unleashes
  • allows
  • sets free

Examples

  • The guard keeps the visitors behind the safety barrier.
  • The walls keep the animals within the enclosure.
  • The security system keeps unauthorized people out of the building.

Related Words

  • restraint
  • control
  • containment
  • confinement
  • restriction
  • regulation
  • limitation

VERB

3. Following rules, promises, or commitments

To observe, obey, fulfill, or remain faithful to rules, agreements, promises, obligations, or established practices.

3.1. Obeying rules and regulations

Refers to acting in accordance with established rules, laws, regulations, instructions, or standards.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The students keep the school rules.
  • She always keeps the safety regulations in mind.
  • The organization keeps strict standards for quality control.

Related Words

3.2. Fulfilling promises and obligations

Refers to doing what one has promised or agreed to do and honoring personal or professional commitments.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • He always keeps his promises to his friends.
  • The company keeps its commitments to its customers.
  • She keeps her word even when circumstances become difficult.

Related Words

VERB

4. Taking care of or looking after someone or something

To provide care, protection, supervision, or attention to someone or something.

4.1. Providing care and protection

Refers to looking after people, animals, or property by providing necessary care, attention, supervision, or protection.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • She keeps the children safe while their parents are away.
  • The farmer keeps several animals on his property.
  • He keeps an eye on his elderly neighbor to make sure she is doing well.

Related Words

4.2. Managing or operating an establishment

Refers to managing, administering, or running a business, institution, household, or other organized establishment.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Her family keeps a small restaurant near the station.
  • The organization keeps several offices across the country.
  • He keeps a shop that sells traditional household goods.

Related Words

VERB

5. Continuing an activity or course of action

To continue doing something without stopping, interrupting, or abandoning the activity.

5.1. Continuing an activity or effort

Refers to carrying on with an activity, process, or effort over a period of time, often despite difficulties or challenges.

Synonyms

  • continues
  • carries on
  • persists
  • proceeds
  • sustains
  • keeps going
  • perseveres

Antonyms

Examples

  • She keeps working even when the task becomes difficult.
  • The team keeps improving its performance throughout the season.
  • He keeps trying until he finds a solution.

Related Words

VERB

6. Celebrating or observing an occasion

To observe, celebrate, or commemorate a particular holiday, festival, anniversary, or special occasion.

6.1. Observing holidays and traditions

Refers to celebrating or observing a customary holiday, religious occasion, festival, or traditional event.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The community keeps the annual festival with traditional music and dancing.
  • Many families keep religious holidays according to their customs.
  • The town keeps the anniversary of its founding every year.

Related Words

NOUN

7. A fortified central tower of a castle

The strongest central tower of a medieval castle or fortress, designed as a place of defense and refuge.

7.1. The central defensive tower of a castle

Refers to the principal fortified tower within a castle, often serving as the last defensive stronghold and a place of refuge during an attack.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The soldiers retreated to the castle keeps during the siege.
  • The fortress had several defensive towers surrounding its central keep.
  • The ancient keeps provided shelter for the castle's inhabitants.

Related Words