hold back

verb

1. hold back, as of a danger or an enemy; check the expansion or influence of

   verb.competition

   Synonyms arrest check contain stop turn back

   Source: WordNet 3.0

2. keep under control; keep in check

   verb.social

   Synonyms keep keep back restrain

   Source: WordNet 3.0

3. refrain from doing

   verb.stative

   Synonyms forbear

   Source: WordNet 3.0

4. wait before acting

   verb.stative

   Synonyms hold off wait

   Source: WordNet 3.0

5. secure and keep for possible future use or application

   verb.possession

   Synonyms hold keep back retain

   Source: WordNet 3.0

6. hold back; keep from being perceived by others

   verb.perception

   Synonyms conceal hold in

   Source: WordNet 3.0