The traffic jam held me up for an hour.
hold up
idiomTo impede; detain.
Security at the airport held us up because they needed to check my bag more carefully.
A sudden downpour held up the construction crew, forcing them to delay the pouring of concrete until the weather cleared.
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apron-string hold
An estate held by a man during his wife's life.
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buy and hold
A passive investment strategy where an investor purchases an asset and retains it for many years, rather than trading it frequently.
- 03
don't hold your breath
Don't wait. Said cynically to suggest that what has just been mentioned is unlikely to happen soon or at all.
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hold a grudge
To stay angry (at someone or something).
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hold a light
Synonym of hold a candle.
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hold back
To act with reserve; to contain one's full measure or power.
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hold by the button
To detain in conversation to the point of weariness or tedium; to bore while tallking to
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hold cheap
To have a low esteem for (someone or something); to hold in contempt; to look down upon.
Last updated April 17, 2026