hold out
verbEtymology From hold and out.
1
Literally To hold (something) out; to extend (something) forward.
- He held out his hand, and I grabbed it.
- I held out my hand, and the horrible, soft-spoken, eyeless creature gripped it in a moment like a vise. I was so much startled that I struggled to withdraw; but the blind man pulled me close up to him with a single action of his arm.1881–1882, Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Island, London; Paris: Cassell & Company, published 14 November 1883, →OCLC:
1 more example
- And you stare at me In your Jesus Christ pose Arms held out Like you've been carrying a load1991, “Jesus Christ Pose”, in Chris Cornell (lyrics), Soundgarden (music), Badmotorfinger, performed by Soundgarden, Track 4:
2
Figuratively To offer, present (a hope, possibility, opportunity etc.)
- The prospectus held out the promise of enormous profits to be made.
- Mr Baxter did not hold out much encouragement in the circumstances. "You can scarcely expect to find anyone at business now," he remarked.1914, Ernest Bramah, Max Carrados:
3
Idiomatic, Often, With for To wait, or refuse in hopes of getting something better (from a negotiation, etc.)
- I am holding out for more money.
- How long has he been holding out?
4
Idiomatic To survive, endure.
- How long can they hold out without water?
- Stevan Jovetic gave Montenegro hope when he unleashed a pile-driver but Wales held out for a much-needed win.2011 September 2, “Wales 2-1 Montenegro”, in BBC:
1 more example
- For the third game in a row, the Boks held out with just one point after seeing off France and England in the quarters and semis respectively.2023 October 28, Leighton Koopman, “YES!!! The Springboks beat the All Blacks to win another Rugby World Cup title”, in Independent Online:
- You've got a key! Why have you been holding out on me?
6
To set aside something or save it for later.
- Pack the boxes, but hold out a few blue ones for later.