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.

The intelligence to be able to hold back and then to make that run to get on the end of it was incredible.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

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

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

“You may have people just hold back because they think things are more expensive.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

RSP deputy chairman DP Aryal urged supporters to hold back on celebrations.

From Barron's • Mar. 7, 2026

I hold back a snicker, because he seems to really mean it.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen