keep
verb (used with object)
to hold or retain in one's possession; hold as one's own.
had kept
-
past perfectof keep.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A calf strain had kept Jung sidelined since July 21 and Eovaldi had been out since Aug. 7 with elbow inflammation.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
The cartel had kept planned October production levels unchanged earlier this month, citing its commitment to market stability.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026
The original 1998 film hardly enchanted critics upon its debut, but went on to conjure a cult following that had kept hopes of a sequel alive ever since.
From Barron's ● Sep. 13, 2026
Still, until this week, the feds had kept mum about the case.
From Slate ● Aug. 28, 2026
Down went Jo’s face into the wet handkerchief, and she cried despairingly, for she had kept up bravely till now and never shed a tear.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
