The phrase "keeps custody" is commonly used in legal and family cases when referring to the responsibility of taking care of a child or dependant. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /kiːps ˈkʌstədi/. The word "keeps" is spelt with a double "e" to indicate the long vowel sound, while "custody" is spelt with a "c" and "u" to represent the sound of "k", and "ʌ" respectively. The correct spelling of this phrase is essential in legal and formal documentation to avoid any misunderstandings or errors.
Keeps custody refers to the legal authority, responsibility, and physical control that a person or institution has over another person or thing. In relation to individuals, it refers to the legal right to care for, protect, and supervise a child, usually granted by a court of law. The person who keeps custody is typically responsible for making important decisions regarding the child's welfare, such as their education, healthcare, and general upbringing.
Keeping custody can be granted to one or both parents, depending on the outcome of a custody battle or divorce proceedings. In cases where sole custody is given to one parent, they are solely responsible for the child's well-being. However, joint custody is also a possible outcome, where both parents continue to share responsibility for major decisions and parenting time.
In terms of property or assets, keeping custody refers to retaining ownership, possession, or control over a particular item. This could apply to financial assets, physical property, or even custody of pets or valuables.
Overall, keeping custody implies a legal and often moral obligation to provide care, protection, and maintenance for someone or something. It entails decision-making authority and the responsibility to ensure the well-being and safety of the person or possession under one's custody.
The phrase keeps custody does not have a specific etymology on its own because it is a combination of two separate words.
The word keeps is derived from the Old English word cepan, meaning to care, guard, or protect which has evolved into keep in modern English.
The word custody comes from the Latin word custodia, which means protection or guardianship. It entered English through Old French, where it was spelled custodie.
So, keeps custody combines the Old English and Latin/French roots to mean maintains guardianship or protection.