1
as in clutched
to have or keep in one's hands
this casserole dish is too hot to hold, so grab a potholder
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2
as in retained
to continue to have in one's possession or power
she, and she alone, held the keys to the mysterious chest
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3
as in believed
to have as an opinion
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal"
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4
5
as in had
to keep in one's mind or heart
still held her close to his heart, though they had long parted
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6
as in owned
to keep, control, or experience as one's own
the same family has held this piece of land for over 100 years
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7
8
as in grasped
to reach for and take hold of by embracing with the fingers or arms
please hold my arm on these slippery stairs
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9
10
as in controlled
to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression)
we managed to hold our laughter until we got outside hold your temper until you hear the whole story
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11
as in aimed
to point or turn (something) toward a target or goal
held the camera on the actor throughout the scene
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Cite this Entry
“Held.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/held. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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