keeps

The word “keeps” means used only in the fixed phrase "for keeps," meaning permanently or with lasting seriousness. In plain terms, only appears in the phrase "for keeps," meaning permanently or seriously.

“Keeps” is pronounced keeps (/kiːps/ in IPA).

Here is “keeps” used in a sentence: “When she moved in, they both knew it was for keeps.”

“Keeps” is a noun.

“Keeps” is a fairly common word in modern English.

For keeps means permanently — to have or hold something for good, not just temporarily. It comes from children's games, where winning a marble for keeps meant keeping it forever. Today it also implies lasting seriousness, as in a relationship or decision meant to last rather than a trial.

It grew out of children's games, especially marbles, where playing for keeps meant the winner kept what they won rather than returning it. From that literal sense of permanent possession, the phrase spread into general use to describe anything meant to be permanent or serious.

The phrase works adverbially, meaning permanently or for good: this time it's for keeps, or she gave me the ring for keeps. It often stresses that something is final and lasting, as opposed to borrowed, temporary, or on trial — a gift or commitment meant to endure.