keep (one's) head

keep (one's) head

To be and remain in a calm, stable, sensible, and pragmatic state or condition despite stress. My father has always been a rock of level-headed judgment and advice. Even during our family's lowest points, he's always kept his head.

See also: head, keep

keep one's head

Fig. to remain calm and sensible when in an awkward situation that might cause a person to panic or go out of control. She was very angry. We had to calm her down and encourage her to keep her head. Always try to keep your head when others are panicking.

See also: head, keep

keep one's head

1. Stay calm, retain self-control, as in When the rowboat capsized, George yelled that everyone should keep their head and hold onto the boat . This usage dates from the early 1600s and is about two centuries older than the antonym, lose one's head, meaning "to become confused and agitated," as in Whenever the stock market goes down sharply, people seem to lose their heads and sell.

2. keep one's head above water. See head above water.

See also: head, keep

keep your head

COMMON If you keep your head, you remain calm in a difficult situation. Keep your head. A calm presence is an invaluable asset. The most important thing is to keep your head and focus on what you are doing. Compare with lose your head.

See also: head, keep

keep (or lose) your head

remain (or fail to remain) calm.

1990 Time He claims that Quayle rises to the challenge, takes chances but keeps his head.

See also: head, keep

keep your ˈhead

think clearly and remain calm: If there is a robbery, you should try to keep your head and do as you are told.

See also: head, keep