keep
UK: kiːp | US: kiːp
vt. to retain possession of
vt. to continue in a specified state or action
vt. to fulfill or honor (a promise, duty, etc.)
n. the cost of basic necessities (archaic: "earn one’s keep")
n. a stronghold or central tower of a castle
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The word "keep" traces back to Old English cēpan, meaning "to seize, hold, or observe," likely derived from Proto-Germanic kōpijaną. Its core idea of "holding" persisted through Middle English (kepen), branching into modern meanings like retaining possession, maintaining a state, or guarding (as in a castle’s keep). The semantic shift from physical holding to abstract observance (e.g., "keep a promise") reflects its logical expansion in usage.
She decided to keep the old letters for sentimental reasons.
Keep quiet during the lecture.
He always keeps his word.
In medieval times, the keep was the last line of defense.
The job barely covered his keep.