kept

word · lemma: keep

/ˈkæpt/, /ˈkɛpt/
kept
/kˈɛpt/
kept

Definition

Simple past and past participle of 'keep'. It means to have continued to have, hold, or maintain something over a period of time.

Usage & Nuances

'Kept' is only used as the past tense or past participle of 'keep'. Common collocations: 'kept a secret', 'kept safe', 'kept going'. Often about maintaining, storing, or not sharing something.

Example Sentences

She kept all the letters from her friend.

basic

He kept his promise to help me.

basic

They kept the food in the refrigerator.

basic

I kept thinking about what you said.

natural

We kept our dog inside during the storm.

natural

She kept quiet so she wouldn’t get in trouble.

natural