1. To hold or retain possession of something: This is the most common meaning. Examples include "keep a secret," "keep a promise," or "keep your belongings safe."
2. To maintain or continue something: This meaning often implies effort or action. Examples include "keep a journal," "keep a clean house," or "keep a secret."
3. To stay in a particular state or place: This meaning often implies a lack of change. Examples include "keep calm," "keep quiet," or "keep warm."
4. To prevent from leaving: This meaning often implies confinement or restriction. Examples include "keep someone locked up," "keep animals in a pen," or "keep your phone on silent."
5. To provide food and shelter for someone: This meaning is often used in the phrase "keep someone in their home."
The meaning of "keep" will depend on the context of the sentence. For example, "keep the change" means to retain the extra money, while "keep your head up" means to stay positive.