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

NBC’s “Today” is keeping the selection of its next co-host in the family.

From Los Angeles Times

The population, then at around 211 million, continued to expand, and many who at first worried for the carrying capacity of the planet became preoccupied with walling off the country and keeping the global population at bay.

From Salon

For now, Mike Huckabee seems to be keeping his cards close to his chest.

From BBC

The Raiders will have a tough time keeping pace offensively in this matchup.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, big cities have struggled visibly with basic governance issues over the past four years, including keeping schools open, fighting crime, reducing homelessness, and managing the arrival of international migrants.

From Slate