Keeps – when it means "continues"

Most learners know keep as meaning to have or hold something.

Keep this for later.


But in everyday English, keeps is very often used to mean something continues again and again. In fact, you can just substitute the word "continues" for "keeps". 

Structure

Subject + keeps + -ing (verb)

He keeps calling me.

It keeps raining.

More Examples

She keeps forgetting my name.

The dog keeps barking at night.

My phone screen keeps freezing.

Often used in a negative tone

We often use this form when something annoying happens again and again.

Another Use of "Keep"

keep + object + adjective 

meaning: to make, cause, or maintain a continuous state or condition

This jacket keeps me warm. (e.g. This jacket continues to make me warm)

Coffee keeps me awake at bedtime. (e.g. Coffee causes me to stay awake at bedtime)

This blanket keeps the baby comfortable. (e.g. This blanket maintains the baby's comfort)

Exercise keeps you healthy. 

The funny video kept us laughing for ten minutes.

The noise kept him awake.