keeping

keep-ing · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The action of having something in one's care or custody.

  2. 2.

    Conformity or harmony with something.

  3. 3.

    The action of maintaining something in a particular state or condition.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in keeping with — Consistent or compatible with
  • •
    out of keeping with — Not consistent or compatible with
  • •
    safe keeping — The action of keeping something safe; custody for protection

Related words

See also: care, custody, keep
Synonyms: care, charge, custody, guardianship

Etymology

From Middle English keping, from kepen ("to keep") + -ing (noun-forming suffix). The word functions as both the present participle of "keep" and as a standalone noun.