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keeps

v. · n.
US //ˈkips// UK //kˈiːps// keeps
  1. 1 to continue an action (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to continue doing something or to do it many times.

    to continue a specific action or state; frequently functions as a catenative verb followed by a gerund.

    Example

    She keeps checking her phone because she is expecting an important call.

    Example

    The engine keeps making a rhythmic clicking sound, which suggests that one of the internal valves may be failing.

    Usage

    Followed by the -ing form of the verb.
    Pitfall
    He keeps to ask the same question.
    He keeps asking the same question.

    When 'keep' means to continue an action, it must be followed by the -ing form, not the infinitive.

  2. 2 to stay in a state (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to stay in a particular place, condition, or position.

    to remain or cause to remain in a specified state, condition, or location.

    Example

    Please keep the door closed so the cat doesn't get out.

    Example

    The hikers were advised to keep quiet as they approached the clearing where the deer were known to gather at dusk.
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  1. 3 to own or store (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to have something and not give it back, or to store it in a place.

    to retain possession of something or to store it in a regular location for future use.

    Example

    You can keep the book for another week if you haven't finished it.

    Example

    The archivist keeps the most fragile manuscripts in a climate-controlled vault to prevent the ink from fading over time.
  2. 4 permanently (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    used in the phrase 'for keeps' to mean forever or permanently.

    used exclusively in the idiomatic prepositional phrase 'for keeps' to denote permanence.

    Example

    Are you giving me this camera for keeps, or do you want it back later?

    Example

    The two companies decided to merge for keeps, rather than forming a temporary partnership for a single project.
  3. 5 castle towers (n.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    the strongest, central towers of old castles.

    the innermost stronghold or central tower of a medieval castle.

    Example

    The ancient keeps of the valley were built to protect the villagers from invaders.

    Example

    The ruins of the Norman keeps still dominate the skyline, serving as a reminder of the region's turbulent military history.
Idioms1 entry

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