# keeping

/ˈkipɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈiːpɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/keeping
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. care or custody

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

the responsibility of looking after something or keeping it safe.

For teachers: the state of being in charge or having the care of something; often used with 'in' or 'into'.

- The lawyer left the original documents in the keeping of the bank.
- The priceless artifacts were placed in the keeping of the national museum until a more secure facility could be constructed.

Usage: Commonly appears in the phrase 'in someone's keeping'.

### 2. matching or harmony

noun · CEFR B2

the way something fits or matches with other things around it.

For teachers: conformity, harmony, or consistency with a particular style, tradition, or set of facts.

- The new modern windows were not in keeping with the old house.
- The proposed glass skyscraper was deemed not in keeping with the historic character of the surrounding medieval district.

Usage: Almost always used in the fixed phrases 'in keeping with' or 'out of keeping with'.

## Examples

- The new windows are in keeping with the house's style.
- The company's decision to donate its profits was in keeping with its long-standing commitment to social responsibility.
- While the architect introduced modern materials, the overall proportions of the extension remained in keeping with the original Victorian structure to satisfy the local conservation committee.

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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.