Definition of safe keeping

The phrase "safe keeping" has ancient roots, and its origin can be traced back to the Old English language, specifically the word "selan" which meant "holy" or "sacred". In Anglo-Saxon times, valuables were often placed in churches or monasteries as a way of keeping them safe, as these buildings were considered sacred and inviolable. Over time, the meaning of "selan" shifted to "safe" or "secure", and the phrase "selan hæfen" (meaning "safe haven") became commonly used. This evolved into the Middle English "sefe keepynge", which referred to the safekeeping of items in a secure location, typically by a trusted individual. The modern usage of "safe keeping" can be traced back to the 14th century, as recorded in the Middle English text "The Pearl". Here, the phrase is used to describe the safekeeping of precious items by a trusted family member or friend. Today, "safe keeping" is a widely used term in a variety of contexts, from financial institutions to personal affairs. It continues to represent the importance of protecting and securing valuable items or information, and is a reminder of the significant role that religion and tradition have played in shaping modern English language.