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.
Additionally, tabloids and other outlets have kept close tabs on her romantic relationships, including her reunions with ex-boyfriend Ricky Alvarez, following a reported split with “Wicked” co-star Ethan Slater.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 3, 2026
Plenty of internet pundits, however, have kept their eye on this and continued to deliberately stoke the anger themselves.
From Slate ● Aug. 3, 2026
Job growth may not be great — but as Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said last week, “job gains have kept pace with the workforce, and the unemployment rate has changed little.”
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 2, 2026
Despite its age, continuous upgrades have kept the Lovell telescope at the cutting edge of astronomical research.
From BBC ● Jul. 27, 2026
“We have lost an egg a day that would have kept us alive. We must keep the other two hens carefully, and find seed for them somehow.”
From "Nory Ryan’s Song" by Patricia Reilly Giff
