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

Liverpool's attack will click at some point, but I don't think it will happen here, and their vulnerability to direct balls in behind their defence means I don't see them keeping a clean sheet either.

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The people choose representatives who are protective of local interests while keeping their eye on the nation’s.

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In automatic mode, the car ambles down the boulevard, murmuring, simmering and keeping its immensity hidden from polite society.

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So why do government bureaucrats insist on keeping the distinctions and are reinforcing, expanding and mandating them?

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She was speaking after public spending watchdog, the Accounts Commission, said the sum of money councils were spending on culture and leisure services was not keeping up with rising costs.

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