keep(verb)

to have for a very long or indefinite period of time

He gave me the picture to keep.

keep(verb)

not to give or throw away; to preserve

I kept the most interesting books; Can you keep a secret?

keep(verb)

to (cause to) remain in a certain state or position

I keep this gun loaded; How do you keep cool in this heat?; Will you keep me informed of what happens?

keep(verb)

to go on (performing or repeating a certain action)

He kept walking.

keep(verb)

to have in store

I always keep a tin of baked beans for emergencies.

keep(verb)

to look after or care for

She keeps the garden beautifully; I think they keep hens.

keep(verb)

to remain in good condition

That meat won't keep in this heat unless you put it in the fridge.

keep(verb)

to make entries in (a diary, accounts etc)

She keeps a diary to remind her of her appointments; He kept the accounts for the club.

keep(verb)

to hold back or delay

Sorry to keep you.

keep(verb)

to provide food, clothes, housing for (someone)

He has a wife and child to keep.

keep(verb)

to act in the way demanded by

She kept her promise.

keep(noun)

food and lodging

She gives her mother money every week for her keep; Our cat really earns her keep; – she kills all the mice in the house.

keep(verb)

to celebrate

to keep Christmas.