keep company: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘keep company’ mean?
The idiom "keep company" means to spend time with or be in the company of someone, usually in a social or friendly manner.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "stick together" means to support and stay united with a group of people, especially during difficult times.
The idiom "keep watch" means to stay vigilant or be on the lookout for potential dangers or threats. It implies being aware and alert to ensure the safety or security of someone or something.
The idiom "keep up with the Joneses" means to try to match or rival the lifestyle or possessions of one's neighbors or peers, often driven by the desire for social status or recognition.
The idiom "keep up appearances" means to maintain a certain image or perception, often to hide the true situation or feelings.
The idiom "keep up" means to maintain the same level or pace, or to continue at a sufficient rate. It can refer to staying informed or being able to match or compete with others.
The idiom "keep on" means to continue doing something without stopping or to persist in doing something despite difficulties or obstacles.
The idiom "keep off the streets" means to stay indoors or avoid going outside, often because of dangerous or unsafe conditions on public roads or in the surrounding area.
The idiom "keep off the streets" is commonly used in American English. It can be interpreted literally or figuratively based on the context.
The idiom "keep it up" means to continue doing something with the same effort and determination. It is often used to encourage or praise someone for their persistence or hard work.
The idiom "keep house" refers to the act of managing and maintaining a household, typically done by a homemaker. It involves tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and organizing the home. The phrase can also imply maintaining order and harmony within the household.
The idiom "keep an eye peeled" means to be vigilant or watchful, paying close attention to one's surroundings in order to notice any important or unusual developments.
Unexpected Origins
The idiom "keep company" has several meanings and interpretations. One possible interpretation is to spend time with someone or be in their presence. This meaning can be traced back to the 14th century, where "keep" meant "occupy" or "reside." It referred to staying with or remaining in the company of someone.
Another interpretation of "keep company" is to be in a romantic relationship or date someone. This usage implies a closer and more intimate connection between individuals. It has been observed since the 16th century when the phrase "keep love company" was used to describe having a romantic partner.
Furthermore, "keep company" can also describe spending time with someone to provide companionship or support. This meaning is especially relevant when someone is going through a difficult time. The idiom suggests being there for someone, offering solace, or simply being present to provide moral support.
In a broader sense, "keep company" can be used figuratively to describe associating with a particular group or engaging in a specific activity. This usage suggests being part of a collective or sharing a common interest or goal.
Overall, the idiom "keep company" encompasses various interpretations revolving around companionship, presence, support, and association.
In addition to "keep company," there are several related idioms that are worth exploring:
The idiom "hang out" is synonymous with "keep company" and means to spend time with someone in a casual and relaxed manner. It implies a sense of informality and can refer to various activities, such as meeting up for a meal, going for a walk, or simply spending time together.
Another related idiom is "keep a close watch," which emphasizes the act of being vigilant and observant. It suggests paying attention to someone or something and ensuring their well-being or safety. This idiom can be used in a literal sense, such as keeping a close watch on a child playing, or in a figurative sense, such as keeping a close watch on a developing situation.
The idiom "stick together" conveys the idea of maintaining unity and solidarity. It implies staying connected and supporting one another, especially in challenging or difficult times. This idiom emphasizes the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
Lastly, the idiom "hang around" is another related phrase. It means to spend time in a particular place or with a specific group of people without a specific purpose or agenda. It suggests a sense of leisure and idle enjoyment.
As language continues to evolve, there is always the potential for new meanings and interpretations to arise, ensuring the vitality and depth of idiomatic expressions like "keep company." While the origins and usage of "keep company" have been analyzed and studied, there may still be undiscovered nuances or historical accounts that could further enhance our understanding of this idiom.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "keep company" can be used in a sentence:
- She enjoys keeping company with her cat during a quiet evening at home. (meaning: spending time together)
- I don't think he's the right person to keep company with. (meaning: associate with)
- During the hospital stay, she appreciated having her family to keep her company. (meaning: provide companionship)
More "Verb" idioms
