Keep
/kiːp/noun
To hold, retain, maintain, or continue to have something; also to guard or preserve.
Did you know?The word ultimately traces back to a Germanic root meaning “to seize” or “take hold,” which is why its history is less about gentle preservation and more about forceful control.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*kaupjaną
“to buy, trade”
Old English
OE
cēpan
“to seize, hold, care for, observe”
Middle English
ME
kepen
“to keep, guard, preserve”
Modern English
English
keep
“to retain, maintain, protect, or continue to have”