noun A person or thing that holds something down or keeps something under control.
verb To keep something or someone under control or in a particular position, especially by applying pressure.
To hold down a structure or material in place while fastening or securing it.
To hold down a patient or body part for a medical procedure or examination.
To hold down a button to activate a function or control in a system.
To hold down a part or component in place during assembly or machining processes.
To hold down a key on a keyboard or pad to trigger a sustained sound or effect.
To hold down a key on a keyboard to input a repeated character or command.
In a professional context, 'hold down' can be used by a writer to describe the act of maintaining a regular job while also pursuing their writing career. For example, a writer may say 'I need to hold down a full-time job while working on my novel.'
Psychologists may use 'hold down' to refer to managing multiple responsibilities or roles within their profession. For instance, a psychologist might say 'I have to hold down my private practice while also teaching at the university.'
Chefs may use 'hold down' to describe the act of managing a busy kitchen or restaurant while also handling other aspects of their culinary career. For example, a chef might say 'I have to hold down the kitchen during dinner service while also developing new menu items.'
Engineers may use 'hold down' to indicate the ability to successfully manage a project or team while also balancing other tasks or responsibilities. For instance, an engineer might say 'I need to hold down the project deadlines while also attending industry conferences.'