keeping

[kee-ping]

noun

1. agreement or conformity in things or elements associated together.

   His actions are not in keeping with his words.

   Synonyms: harmony, congruity, consistency

2. the act of a person or thing that keeps; observance, custody, or care.

   Synonyms: guardianship, charge, protection

3. maintenance or keep.

4. holding, reserving, or retaining.

keeping

/ ˈkiːpɪŋ /

noun

1. conformity or harmony (esp in the phrases in or out of keeping )

2. charge or care

   valuables in the keeping of a bank

Word History and Origins

Origin of keeping¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, keeping is from the Middle English word keping. See keep, -ing ¹

Synonym Study

See custody.

Example Sentences

Those who complete the mini scavenger hunt will be given a free gift at Paper Plant, which Niimura is keeping a secret.

From Los Angeles Times

Meanwhile, Republicans - who control both chambers of Congress but do not have the 60 votes needed to pass a funding bill - have said these healthcare benefits are not the priority, keeping the government open is.

From BBC

Hegseth’s deep message to the troops keeping America safe: “It all starts with physical fitness and appearance. If the secretary of war can do regular, hard PT, so can every member of our joint force.”

From Los Angeles Times

A couple of years ago I might have felt uneasy with George’s insistence to make his wife breakfast, his keeping her stuff, and his gift-giving, because it smacks against the acceptance stage of grief work.

From Salon

Earlier this week we were keeping an eye on Hurricane Humberto which is going to weaken in the mid-Atlantic before heading to the UK.

From BBC