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Meaning of hold back
The primary meaning of "hold back" is to restrain or control something, especially a feeling or action, or to delay or hinder progress.
Etymology of hold back
The phrase "hold back" originated from the Old English words "haldan" meaning "to hold" and "bæcan" meaning "to move back" or "to withdraw"
Historically, the phrase was used to describe physical restraint or control, but over time its meaning expanded to include emotional and figurative restraint
Synonyms
Definitions
- To restrain or control something, especially a feeling or action
- To delay or hinder progress or movement
- To keep something hidden or unexpressed
Usage Examples
- She tried to hold back her tears during the sad movie
- The government had to hold back the crowd to prevent a riot
- He struggled to hold back his anger when he heard the news