hold water

phrase

Synonyms of hold waternext
: to stand up under criticism or analysis
Their version of events doesn't hold water.

Examples of hold water in a Sentence

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.
Some sources recommend adding dry cornstarch to containers so the soil holds water longer. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Aug. 2026 When soil loses its ability to hold water, harvests become less reliable, farmers struggle and food prices rise. — Shooka Bidarian, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Though some accusations seem to hold water, the headline is his hounding in context. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 19 Aug. 2026 Kumiko Love, a financial counselor, told ABC News the sentiment holds water. — ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hold water

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hold water was in 1652

Rhymes for hold water

See All Rhymes for hold water

Browse Nearby Words

hold up one's head
hold water
hold with
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for hold water

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