keep someone company

keep company

1. To spend time with one for the sake of companionship, or in order to keep them from being lonely. In this usage, a noun or pronoun appears between “keep” and “company.”

Can you keep me company for a while? I’ve felt so cooped up without anyone to talk to.

At the very least, Trish will have her dog to keep her company on the trip.

2. To associate (with).

The people you keep company with reflect greatly on your character.

3. dated To court someone.

Lord Nelson has been keeping company with a commoner, and the village is astir.

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.