hold
The central image is one of containment or stability—whether that is a physical grip on an object, the capacity of a vessel, or the maintenance of a specific state. In its physical sense, it implies control and security. Unlike 'grab' (which is sudden) or 'touch' (which is superficial), 'hold' suggests a sustained application of force to keep something in place. When used for events, it shifts from physical containment to organizational containment—creating a space and time for an activity to occur. In abstract contexts, such as 'holding' a position or a belief, the word carries a connotation of resilience and resistance against change or pressure.
Countable when referring to a physical grip ('a firm hold on the rope') or a cargo compartment ('the ship has two separate holds'). Uncountable when referring to the general state of control or influence someone exerts over another.
💬Casual Conversation
Just circling back on the Q3 sync. Can we hold it at 4?
Cut the buzzwords, David. Just send the invite.
Meanings
To grasp, carry, or support something with one's hands or arms.
"Please hold the baby carefully while I get a towel."
To contain or have the capacity for a specific amount of something.
"This water bottle can hold up to two liters of liquid."
To organize or conduct an event, meeting, or ceremony.
"The committee decided to hold the annual gala in December."
To remain in a particular state, position, or condition.
"Despite the pressure of the game, the defense continued to hold."
Examples
Please hold the baby carefully while I get a towel.
This water bottle can hold up to two liters of liquid.
The committee decided to hold the annual gala in December.
Despite the pressure of the game, the defense continued to hold.
She tightened her hold on the railing as the boat rocked.
The luggage was stored in the hold of the plane.
Collocations & Compounds
firm hold
Noun collocation: a strong and secure grip
He maintained a firm hold on the rope during the climb.
cargo hold
Noun collocation: the storage area of an aircraft or ship
The crew loaded the crates into the cargo hold.
hold a meeting
Verb collocation: to organize or conduct a formal gathering
The manager will hold a meeting to discuss the new project.
hold a conversation
Verb collocation: to engage in a spoken exchange
It was difficult to hold a conversation over the loud music.
hold steady
Verb collocation: to remain stable or unchanging
The climber tried to hold steady as the wind gusted.
Phrasal Verbs
hold on
to wait for a short time
Please hold on for a moment while I check your reservation.
hold up
to delay someone or something
The heavy traffic held up the delivery truck for two hours.
hold back
to restrain an emotion or action
She struggled to hold back her tears during the ceremony.
hold off
to delay doing something
We decided to hold off on the renovation until next spring.
hold out
to resist or survive in a difficult situation
The small garrison managed to hold out against the enemy for three weeks.
Idioms & Sayings
hold your breath
to wait in anticipation or to stop breathing temporarily
Please hold your breath for a moment while I take the X-ray.
hold your tongue
to refrain from speaking
I had to hold my tongue to avoid arguing with the boss.
hold the fort
to take responsibility for a place or situation while others are away
Can you hold the fort at the office until I return from lunch?
hold water
to be valid or logically sound
His explanation for the missing funds simply does not hold water.
hold your horses
to wait or slow down
Hold your horses, we need to check the map before we drive any further.