keeper
UK: ˈkiːpə | US: ˈkiːpər
n. a person who manages or looks after something (e.g., a museum keeper)
n. a player in sports who guards a goal or position (e.g., a goalkeeper)
n. something that preserves or maintains a condition (e.g., a timekeeper)
The word "keeper" originates from the Old English "cēpan" (to seize or hold), evolving into Middle English "kepen" (to guard or maintain). The suffix "-er" denotes an agent noun, forming "keeper" to describe someone or something that performs the action of "keeping." The term has broadened from literal guardianship (e.g., zoo keepers) to metaphorical roles (e.g., record keepers) and specialized uses in sports (e.g., goalkeepers).
The museum keeper ensures the artifacts are preserved properly.
The goalkeeper made a spectacular save during the match.
She works as a timekeeper for the track and field events.
The lighthouse keeper warned ships of the rocky coast.
This moisturizer is a great skin keeper in winter.