Keepable Meaning: Definition and Examples
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keepable
[ˈkiːpəbl ]
Definition
ability to retain
Keepable refers to something that can be retained, held onto, or preserved for future use. It implies a quality of being durable or worthy enough to keep rather than discard.
Synonyms
durable, preservable, retainable.
Examples of usage
- This is a keepable heirloom passed down through generations.
- The project produced several keepable ideas worth exploring further.
- She kept all the keepable items from their travels.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Items we consider keepable often have emotional significance, influencing our feelings of nostalgia or sentimentality.
- The desire to keep certain objects can stem from the psychology of attachment, where we form bonds with inanimate objects due to memories associated with them.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, keepable objects like family heirlooms symbolize continuity and the importance of heritage.
- The Japanese concept of 'mono no aware' appreciates the beauty in fleeting moments, influencing how people perceive what's truly keepable.
Environment
- In the context of sustainability, keepable items encourage reducing waste by prolonging the lifecycle of products we cherish.
- The trend of minimalism challenges people to evaluate which items are truly keepable in their lives, promoting a decluttered lifestyle.
Art
- Many artists create keepable works, such as small sculptures or prints, meant to evoke lasting memories or inspire reflection.
- In literature, characters often grapple with what is keepable in their lives, representing their emotional journeys and relationships.
Origin of 'keepable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining 'keep,' which means to hold onto something, with the suffix '-able,' indicating ability.
- The usage of '-able' in English dates back to the Middle Ages, making it easier to create adjectives that imply capability.
The word 'keepable' is derived from the verb 'keep', which has Old English roots in 'cepan', meaning to hold, grasp, or retain. The suffix '-able' is added to form an adjective describing something that can be kept. The term suggests not only the capability of being retained but also an intrinsic value which commands one's attention to preserve it. Over the years, 'keepable' has been adopted in various contexts, including sentimental objects, information, and other items of value. This reflects a broader societal appreciation for conservation and valuing memories, making 'keepable' a fitting descriptor for cherished belongings.