hold out

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   To hold (something) out

   To hold (something) out; to extend (something) forward.

   • He held out his hand, and I grabbed it.
   • I held out my hand, and the horrible, soft-spoken, eyeless creature gripped it in a moment like a vise. I was so much startled that I struggled to withdraw; but the blind man pulled me close up to him with a single action of his arm.
   • And you stare at me In your Jesus Christ pose Arms held out Like you've been carrying a load
2. 2

   To offer, present (a hope, possibility, opportunity etc.)

   • The prospectus held out the promise of enormous profits to be made.
   • Mr Baxter did not hold out much encouragement in the circumstances. "You can scarcely expect to find anyone at business now," he remarked.
3. 3

   To wait, or refuse in hopes of getting something better (from a negotiation, etc.)

   • I am holding out for more money.
   • How long has he been holding out?
4. ›+ 4 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      To survive, endure.

      • How long can they hold out without water?
      • Stevan Jovetic gave Montenegro hope when he unleashed a pile-driver but Wales held out for a much-needed win.
      • For the third game in a row, the Boks held out with just one point after seeing off France and England in the quarters and semis respectively.
   2. 5

      To withhold something.

      • You've got a key! Why have you been holding out on me?
   3. 6

      To set aside something or save it for later.

      • Pack the boxes, but hold out a few blue ones for later.
   4. 7

      Alternative spelling of holdout.

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