v. 1a. To go on; not stop; continue. The rain kept up for two days and the roads were flooded.
Compare: KEEP ON. 1b. To go on with (something); continue steadily; never stop. Mrs. Smith told John to keep up the good work. The teacher asked Dick to stop bothering Mary, but he kept it up.
Compare: KEEP AT. 2a. To go at the same rate as others. John had to work hard to keep up. Billy was the youngest boy on the hike, but he kept up with the others.
Compare: CATCH UP, KEEP PACE.
Antonym: FALL BEHIND, GET BEHIND 1 . 2b. To keep (something) at the same level or rate or in good condition. The shortage of tomatoes kept the prices up. Grandfather was too poor to keep up his house. 3. To keep informed. Usually used with "on" or "with". Mary is interested in politics and always keeps up with the news.
Compare: KEEP TRACK.