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- Kept - meaning & definition
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/kɛpt/
Meaning & Definition
verb
to have continued to hold or maintain something.
She kept the secret for many years.
to cause to remain in a specified state; to maintain.
He kept the house clean and tidy.
to hold or retain possession of.
They kept the trophy for two years in a row.
to fulfill or perform a promise or obligation.
He kept his promise to call her every week.
Etymology
The word 'kept' is the past tense and past participle of 'keep', which comes from Old English 'cepan', meaning 'to seize, hold, or take'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
kept in check
To control or restrain something.
kept under wraps
To keep something secret or concealed.
kept at bay
To prevent someone or something from approaching or affecting.
kept the faith
To remain loyal or true to a belief or principle.
Related Words
keep
To hold or retain possession of.
keeper
A person who keeps something, such as a custodian.
keeping
The act of maintaining or holding.
Slang Meanings
To stay with someone in a relationship.
He's really kept that girl around for a long time.
To continue to possess something cool or valuable.
That guitar is a classic; you should keep it!