for keeps

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

for keeps

1. (gaming) With an agreement or intention to retain what one gains or receives.

   When we gamble at poker, we play for keeps.

2. (idiomatic, by extension) With a strong competitive resolve to win or succeed, as in sports or business.
   • 2007 Dec. 7, "Steelers' Defense Anticipates Patriots Matchup," KDKA.com (Pittsburg):

     "We both got a job to do. They play for keeps and we play for keeps too," Haggans said.

3. Permanently.
   • 1925 Aug. 10, "Golf: Shenecossett Invitation," Time:

     The Griswold trophy was presented to its winner, for keeps, since it was the third time she had won it.

• for good
• once and for all