held 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.

Long Beach held off a Hawaii rally to win the second set 25-18.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

Companies grappling with changes in everything from trade to immigration and tax policy have for the most part held off on large-scale hiring.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli held off McLaren's Lando Norris in a race-long battle to win the Miami Grand Prix and take a commanding championship lead.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

“I’m in disbelief but I knew we ran something real fast,” said Collins, a sophomore who held off Marley Scoggins of Calabasas on the anchor leg.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

A late foul in the box gave Lawrenceville a penalty shot to pull within a goal, but the Fugees held off the opposition to win the game 2-1.

From "Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference" by Warren St. John