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hold

When used as a verb for grasping, "hold" describes the act of keeping something in your hand. It is different from "grab," which refers to the quick movement of taking something. In the context of events (like meetings or parties), "hold" means to organize or host them. This is common in both professional and casual settings. As a noun, "hold" can refer to physical grip or a storage area on a ship/plane. Be careful not to confuse these two very different meanings based on the context of the sentence.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon; Victoria is in a boardroom while David is frantically trying to find a conference room.
David

Just circling back on the Q3 sync. Can we hold it at 4?

David
Victoria
Victoria

Cut the buzzwords, David. Just send the invite.

💡
David uses 'hold' in the sense of organizing or conducting a meeting. He also employs corporate jargon ('circling back', 'sync'), which Victoria immediately shuts down, reflecting their power dynamic.

Meanings

verb (transitive)

To grasp, carry, or support something with one's hands or arms.

"Please hold the baby carefully while I get a towel."

verb (transitive)

To contain or have the capacity for a specific amount of something.

"This water bottle can hold up to two liters of liquid."

verb (transitive)

To organize or conduct an event, meeting, or ceremony.

"The committee decided to hold the annual gala in December."

verb (intransitive)

To remain in a particular state, position, or condition.

"Despite the pressure of the game, the defense continued to hold."

noun

A grip on something; the act of grasping.

"She tightened her hold on the railing as the boat rocked."

noun

The interior cargo space of a ship or aircraft.

"The luggage was stored in the hold of the plane."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error