hold·back
ˈhōl(d)-ˌbak 
1
: something that retains or restrains
2
a
: the act of holding back
b
: something held back
held back; holding back; holds back
1
a
: to hinder the progress or achievement of : restrain
b
: to keep from advancing to the next stage, grade, or level
2
: to refrain from revealing or parting with
held back important information
1
: to keep oneself in check
2
: to refrain from revealing or parting with something
Examples of holdback in a Sentence
Noun
there'll be a holdback on production until the new machinery is fully installed
the only holdback to starting the new job is my contractual commitment to my current position
Verb
the only thing holding them back from joining the swim team is lack of transportation
held back her tears until she was alone
Recent Examples on the Web
Big Think, 31 Mar. 2025
However, the main holdback of the team making this kind of pick is one of their other needs directly relates to how good of a pick Boise State product could be.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 22 Mar. 2025
Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 May 2025
The first ever Kentucky Derby was first held back in 1875, and multiple winners have since become household names across North America, such as Secretariat and American Pharoah.
—Ben Church, CNN Money, 3 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for holdback
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Noun
And there is no more holdback suspense doubt.
—Big Think, 31 Mar. 2025
However, the main holdback of the team making this kind of pick is one of their other needs directly relates to how good of a pick Boise State product could be.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 22 Mar. 2025
Verb
With many teams on the edge of profitability, there are no gimmes here — while the relegation system means many teams will hold back riskier young talent in favour of steadier older riders.
—Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 May 2025
The first ever Kentucky Derby was first held back in 1875, and multiple winners have since become household names across North America, such as Secretariat and American Pharoah.
—Ben Church, CNN Money, 3 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for holdback
Cite this Entry
“Holdback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holdback. Accessed 6 May. 2025.
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