1
general::
Phrase(s): keep someone or something quiet
Go to keep someone or something still 1. Lit. and keep someone or something quiet, Phrase(s): keep something quiet [and] keep something still
Fig. to keep something a secret. • I’m quitting my job, but my boss doesn’t know yet. Please keep it quiet. • Okay. I’ll keep it still., Phrase(s): keep quiet (about someone or something) [and] keep still (about someone or something)
to refrain from talking about someone or something; to keep a secret about someone or something. • Please keep quiet about the missing money. • Please keep still about it. • All right. I’ll keep still.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Also, keep still. 1. Also, be quiet or still. Remain silent; same as HOLD ONE'S TONGUE. For example, Please keep quiet about the party. Also see KEEP ONE'S MOUTH SHUT. 2. Refrain from moving, stay in the same position; same as HOLD STILL. For example, The doctor gave the young boy a toy to keep him quiet while on the examining table, or It's hard for the baby to keep still unless he's sleeping. [Late 1300s]
American Heritage Idioms