keep up meaning and definition

KEEP UP verb

Definition of keep up (verb)

1. maintain a required pace or level
   • "He could not keep up and dropped out of the race"
2. lengthen or extend in duration or space
   • "We sustained the diplomatic negotiations as long as possible"; "prolong the treatment of the patient"; "keep up the good work"
   • synonyms: prolong, sustain
3. keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, loss, or destruction
   • "We preserve these archeological findings"; "The old lady could not keep up the building"; "children must be taught to conserve our national heritage"; "The museum curator conserved the ancient manuscripts"
   • synonyms: conserve, maintain, preserve
4. keep informed
   • "He kept up on his country's foreign policies"
   • synonyms: follow, keep abreast
5. prevent from going to bed at night
   • "The anticipation of the trip kept the children up all night"; "I kept myself up all night studying for the exam"