What is another word for keep?

Common synonyms for keep include break, goon, livelihood, continue, save.

What is the opposite of keep?

Antonyms of keep include discard, release, abandon, let go, surrender.

Synonyms for

Keep

Verb / ki:p / Another word for keep — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to have or retain possession of something

Synonyms & similar words

break goon livelihood continue save holdopen goalong holdon let sustain observe stayfresh lose keepon keepback support holdback keepopen breadandbutter maintain donjon sustenance dungeon hold prevent hold possess maintain store preserve save hoard conserve retain guard protect withhold sustain support uphold cherish treasure

Synonyms by register

Formal

retain preserve maintain hold

Informal

hold onto save hang onto stash

Literary

cherish hoard possess

Antonyms

discard release abandon let go surrender lose forfeit

Common collocations

keep a secret
keep in touch
keep going
keep track of
keep an eye on
keep up with
keep calm
keep safe

Word family

noun keeping

verb keep

adjective kept

Usage note

The verb 'keep' has a very broad range of meanings. Be mindful of the context to choose the most appropriate synonym. For example, 'retain' is more formal than 'hold onto'.