Meaning & Definition of word "Kept"
to
Kept
/kɛpt/
verb:
- 1. to have continued to hold or maintain something.
- Example: She kept the secret for many years.
- 2. to cause to remain in a specified state; to maintain.
- Example: He kept the house clean and tidy.
- 3. to hold or retain possession of.
- Example: They kept the trophy for two years in a row.
- 4. to fulfill or perform a promise or obligation.
- Example: 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 of kept
Meaning: To stay with someone in a relationship.
Example Sentence: He's really kept that girl around for a long time.
Meaning: To continue to possess something cool or valuable.
Example Sentence: That guitar is a classic; you should keep it!