English dictionary
hold
/h/oU/ld/
Definitions, examples, synonyms and antonyms from WordNet 3.0.
noun
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the act of grasping
ExamplesShe kept a firm hold on the railing.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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understanding of the nature or meaning or quality or magnitude of something
Source: WordNet 3.0
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power by which something or someone is affected or dominated
ExamplesHe has a hold over them.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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time during which some action is awaited
ExamplesHe ordered a hold in the action.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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a state of being confined (usually for a short time)
ExamplesThe prisoner is on hold.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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a stronghold
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a cell in a jail or prison
Synonyms keepSource: WordNet 3.0
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the appendage to an object that is designed to be held in order to use or move it
Source: WordNet 3.0
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the space in a ship or aircraft for storing cargo
Source: WordNet 3.0
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The whole interior portion of a vessel below the lower deck, in which the cargo is stowed.
Source: webster1913
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The act of holding, as in or with the hands or arms; the manner of holding, whether firm or loose; seizure; grasp; clasp; gripe; possession; -- often used with the verbs <i>take</i> and <i>lay</i>.
Source: webster1913
verb
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keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g.,
ExamplesHold in place.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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have or hold in one's hands or grip
ExamplesHold this bowl for a moment, please.
A crazy idea took hold of him.
Synonyms take holdSource: WordNet 3.0
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organize or be responsible for
ExamplesHold a reception.
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have or possess, either in a concrete or an abstract sense
ExamplesShe holds a Master's degree from Harvard.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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keep in mind or convey as a conviction or view
ExamplesHold these truths to be self-evident.
I hold him personally responsible.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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maintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings)
Source: WordNet 3.0
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to close within bounds, limit or hold back from movement
ExamplesThis holds the local until the express passengers change trains.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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secure and keep for possible future use or application
Source: WordNet 3.0
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have rightfully; of rights, titles, and offices
Synonyms bearSource: WordNet 3.0
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be the physical support of; carry the weight of
ExamplesThe beam holds up the roof.
What's holding that mirror?
Source: WordNet 3.0
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contain or hold; have within
ExamplesThe canteen holds fresh water.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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have room for; hold without crowding
ExamplesThe auditorium can't hold more than 500 people.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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remain in a certain state, position, or condition
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support or hold in a certain manner
ExamplesShe holds her head high.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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be valid, applicable, or true
ExamplesThis theory still holds.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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assert or affirm
ExamplesRousseau's philosophy holds that people are inherently good.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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have as a major characteristic
ExamplesThe novel holds many surprises.
The book holds in store much valuable advise.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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be capable of holding or containing
ExamplesThe flask holds one gallon.
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arrange for and reserve (something for someone else) in advance
ExamplesPlease hold a table at Maxim's.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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protect against a challenge or attack
ExamplesHold that position behind the trees!
Hold the bridge against the enemy's attacks.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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bind by an obligation; cause to be indebted
ExamplesI'll hold you by your promise.
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hold the attention of
ExamplesShe can hold an audience spellbound.
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remain committed to
ExamplesI hold to these ideas.
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resist or confront with resistance
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be pertinent or relevant or applicable
ExamplesThis theory holds for all irrational numbers.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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stop dealing with
ExamplesHold all calls to the President's office while he is in a meeting.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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lessen the intensity of; temper; hold in restraint; hold or keep within limits
ExamplesHold your tongue.
Hold your temper.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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keep from departing
ExamplesHold the taxi.
Hold the horse.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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take and maintain control over, often by violent means
Source: WordNet 3.0
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cause to stop
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cover as for protection against noise or smell
ExamplesHold one's nose.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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drink alcohol without showing ill effects
ExamplesHe can hold his liquor.
Synonyms carrySource: WordNet 3.0
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aim, point, or direct
ExamplesHold the fire extinguisher directly on the flames.
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declare to be
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be in accord; be in agreement
ExamplesI hold with those who say life is sacred.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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keep from exhaling or expelling
ExamplesHold your breath.
Source: WordNet 3.0
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To cause to remain in a given situation, position, or relation, within certain limits, or the like; to prevent from falling or escaping; to sustain; to restrain; to keep in the grasp; to retain.
Source: webster1913
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In general, to keep one's self in a given position or condition; to remain fixed. Hence:
Source: webster1913