hold on

verb

held on; holding on; holds on
Synonyms of hold onnext

intransitive verb

1
a
: to maintain a condition or position : persist
b
: to maintain a grasp on something : hang on
2
: to await something (such as a telephone connection) desired or requested
broadly : wait
see also:
hold on to

Synonyms of hold on

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Examples of hold on in a Sentence

the ancient beliefs still held on in remote mountain villages hold on a minute—it's not your turn
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Cubs have seen their once sizeable hold on the NL’s top wild-card spot evaporate over the last 10 days between a tough West Coast trip and dropping their weekend series against the Cincinnati Reds. — Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2026 As the Times report noted, the Met Gala, an extravagant event held in tandem with the Costume Institute’s spring show, is typically held on the first Monday in May. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 31 Aug. 2026 He was held on a $500 bond and was also set to appear in court on Monday. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 31 Aug. 2026 In April, Kushner formed Thrive Eternal, a vehicle to buy unique businesses and hold on to them indefinitely. — Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hold on

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of hold on was in the 13th century

Rhymes for hold on

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Browse Nearby Words

hold off on
hold on
hold one's breath
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hold on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hold%20on. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hold on

verb
1
: to keep a hold
2
: wait entry 1 sense 1a
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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