holds off

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

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

Antonyms

WEAK

let go reveal

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.

Mitch Marner scores three goals as Vegas capitalizes on three first-period goals and holds off a late Ducks surge to take a 6-2 win and a 2-1 series lead.

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2026

But here’s what it means if it holds off again.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 14, 2026

Trump formally accepted Xi’s invitation to visit Beijing in April, which could mean the U.S. holds off on sectoral tariffs related to semiconductors that could rattle that relationship.

From Barron's • Nov. 25, 2025

Madison Keys wins a long-awaited Grand Slam title as she holds off defending champion Aryna Sabalenka to win the Australian Open.

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2025

The deadlock is that as long as Hugh Courteney holds off the feud will keep, but when he doesn't I come in and it won't; everything's precipitated.

From Gideon's Band A Tale of the Mississippi by Cable, George Washington