# even keel

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/even-keel
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Of an emotion or state of mind, the state or characteristic of being under control and balanced.

## Examples

- She keeps an even keel even when things get busy.
- He managed to keep an even keel during the meeting, despite the difficult questions from his boss.
- By maintaining an even keel throughout the crisis, the manager prevented the team from panicking and helped them find a solution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.