keeping

American  

[kee-ping] / ˈki pɪŋ /

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.

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keeping British  

/ 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

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Related Words

See custody.

Etymology

Origin of keeping

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

Example Sentences

“I will accept being addressed as Mayor Mambino for the day,” the mayor quipped, pledging that he was “still keeping the faith.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

Then there is how they handle issues of timing related to making investments versus sales of ships, and putting vessels on longer-term contracts versus keeping them in the spot market.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

The agency pays them a flat rate of 32p a mile, which should cover fuel and the cost of keeping a car on the road.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Rams coach Sean McVay is excited about possibly adding a “really good player” with the No. 13 pick of the 2026 NFL draft, but the team is keeping its options open.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

I asked, keeping up my end of the conversation even as my mind was reeling in another direction.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu