Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

Define dictionary terms easily in our powerful online English dictionary.

Searching for...

No matching words found

Try a different search term or browse the dictionary

Definition keep back in British English

keep back phrasal verb

phrasal verb
1

to not tell someone something, or to not show how you feel

Example

He said he was fine, but I knew he was keeping something back.

2

to keep part of an amount of money that belongs to someone or is owed to them

Example

He kept back £50 for himself.

Synonyms and related words
set aside collect set apart
3

to not move towards someone or something, or to stop someone from doing this

Example

Police were warning people to keep back.

Example

A barrier had been erected to keep back the crowds.

Synonyms and related words
remain stay wait
4

to prevent someone from making progress

Example

It's only her lack of confidence that's keeping her back.

Synonyms and related words
limit tie down control
5

to keep part of something so that you can use it later

Example

Keep back some strawberries for decoration.

Synonyms and related words
set aside collect set apart
6

if you keep back laughter or tears, you stop yourself laughing or crying

Example

She struggled to keep back her tears.

Synonyms and related words
manage suppress deal with
Definition keep back in British English