Keep is a versatile verb that has multiple synonyms with similar meanings. Some common synonyms for keep are hold, retain, maintain, preserve, continue. Hold has a connotation of physically grasping onto something while retain and maintain imply keeping something in its original state. Preserve means to protect something from harm or alteration. Continue means to keep a practice, habit or activity going. Some other synonyms for keep are conserve, sustain, guard, adhere, cherish, save, store, and secure. All these words imply some form of ongoing care, protection, or preservation of something or someone. These words can help you add variety and depth to your writing by using them instead of the word keep.