A2verb1K

Hold

UK /["/həʊld/","/həʊldz/","/held/","/ˈhəʊldɪŋ/"]/US /["/həʊld/","/həʊldz/","/held/","/ˈhəʊldɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to have somebody/something in your hand, arms, etc.

In simple words: To have something in your hands or arms.

Examples

Please hold this book while I grab my bag.
She tried to hold back her tears during the movie.
Can you hold the door open for me?
The manager will hold a meeting tomorrow afternoon.
He was excited to hold the trophy after the game.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing for physical holding; instead, use 'grasp' or 'clutch.'

Grammar pattern

hold + object

Memory hint

Think of 'hold' as keeping something close, like a child in your arms.

Collocations

firmly
securely
tightly
commonly
widely
deeply

Synonyms

grasp
clutch
carry
embrace
support

Antonyms

release
let go
drop

Common mistakes

Confused with 'held' in past tense forms.
Using 'hold' when referring to emotional support instead of 'support'.
Mistakenly used as 'hold on' in formal writing.