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Showing results for hold back. Search instead for holdasak.
Definitions

hold back

VERB
repress
Synonyms
WEAK
bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in hold off inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Really, we’re just watching McKellen give a bravura, scene-gobbling performance that doesn’t hold back one iota.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Global growth will be hard to hold back, but the world needs to be safe first.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

"They're renowned for building dams that hold back the flow of water," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Central bankers fear periods of deflation, in which falling prices lead businesses and households to hold back on spending in anticipation of securing better deals in the future.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

Aunt Tuti’s face tightened as if to hold back tears, but the tears splashed out anyway.

From "The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora" by Pablo Cartaya