keep
verb (used with object)
to hold or retain in one's possession; hold as one's own.
have kept
-
present perfectof keep.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Borrowers of Skipton's zero-deposit mortgage, for example, have to prove they have kept up with their rent for at least 12 consecutive months and credit payments for the last six months.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
This year, left shoulder inflammation and a lat strain have kept him sidelined since April.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
At the same time, other Gulf producers have kept significant volumes flowing despite the conflict.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 10, 2026
The central bankers have kept interest rates unchanged in the range of 3.5%-3.75% at the first five meetings of the year.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 2, 2026
“Maybe I should have kept it. Maybe I should have told Brian. We could have made it work.”
From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng
