Pronunciation: /hoʊld/
noun a cell or compartment in a prison or jail
A1 I have a tight hold on my backpack to make sure it doesn't get stolen.
A2 She lost her grip and the ball slipped out of her hold.
B1 The company has a strong hold on the market due to its innovative products.
B2 The government is trying to loosen its hold on the economy to promote competition.
C1 The dictator's hold on power was finally broken after years of resistance.
C2 The artist's work has a profound hold on the emotions of the audience.
verb to keep or detain
A1 Please hold my hand while we cross the street.
A2 I can hold the door open for you.
B1 Can you hold this package for me while I tie my shoe?
B2 She decided to hold onto the painting as a keepsake.
C1 The company decided to hold a meeting to discuss the new project.
C2 The government was forced to hold a referendum on the controversial issue.
formal Please hold the door open for the next person entering the building.
informal Can you hold my bag while I tie my shoe?
slang I'll hold onto that for you until you need it back.
figurative She held onto her anger for years before finally letting it go.
held
holds
holder
holdiest
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will hold
have held
is holding
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to hold
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