keep it down


keep (someone or something) down

1. To maintain something in a lowered position. Just make sure you keep down the umbrella if it starts to get windy. I like to keep the top down on my convertible even when it gets a little cold.2. To ensure that something cannot move from its position, typically by placing something on top of it or by attaching it to something. I have a nice heavy paperweight that keeps my papers down when a breeze comes through the office We'll need to use some strong tape to keep this panel down.3. To suppress someone's potential or prevent them from improving, advancing, etc. I feel like my boss has really been keeping me down by not letting me sit in on these meetings. Don't let setbacks like this keep you down—you have to keep trying.4. To maintain at a low level or prevent from increasing. The board hopes to keep down tuition rates to stay competitive with other schools. Please keep your voices down during the ceremony.5. To avoid vomiting after one has eaten when one is ill, especially with a stomach ailment. I haven't been able to keep any solids down since Tuesday, but I've been drinking plenty of fluids. Do you think you could keep down some soup?See also: down, keep

keep it down

To be quiet or stop making a lot of noise; to maintain a low level of noise. Often used as an imperative. Can you guys keep it down? I'm trying to sleep. Keep it down before the neighbors call the police!See also: down, keep

keep it down (to a dull roar)

Fig. to keep quiet or as quiet as possible. Keep it down, you kids! Please try to keep it down to a dull roar, could you?See also: down, keep