keeping-room

A family gathers in the keeping-room after dinner.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A family room or living room: In American English, a "keeping-room" is a room in a house, often adjacent to the kitchen, used for daily family activities, relaxation, and informal gatherings. It is typically a more casual and cozy space than a formal living room.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • After dinner, the family gathered in the keeping-room to watch television. (The informal living space for daily use.)
  • The old farmhouse had a large keeping-room with a fireplace and wooden benches. (A historical or rural home's family room.)

Advanced Usage

• "keeping-room" is a term primarily used in American English, especially in New England and historical contexts. It originally referred to a room where the family "kept" or stayed during the day, as opposed to formal parlors used only for guests.
  • In colonial homes, the keeping-room served as the main living and working area. (The central family space for daily life.)

Variants and Related Words

• Keeping (n): the act of holding, maintaining, or preserving.
  • The keeping of the house is the family's responsibility. (The maintenance of the home.)
• Room (n): a part of a building enclosed by walls, floor, and ceiling.
  • The house has four rooms, including a keeping-room. (A defined space within a building.)

Synonyms

• Family room: an informal room in a house for family activities.
• Living room: a room in a house for general daily use.
• Den: a small, cozy room for relaxation or hobbies.
• Sitting room: a room for sitting and socializing.

Related Idioms

• There are no common idioms specifically using "keeping-room." However, the phrase "keeping house" (managing a household) is related.
  • She spent the morning keeping house and tidying the keeping-room. (Managing the home and cleaning the family room.)