at bay

phrase

: in the position of being unable to move closer while attacking or trying to approach someone

—used with keep or hold

The soldiers kept the attackers at bay.

—often used figuratively

The doctors have been able to keep her illness at bay for several months.

Examples of at bay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hyaluronic acid and squalane deliver lasting hydration to help keep dry patches at bay, while niacinamide works to brighten and even the look of skin tone. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 July 2026

Now on sale for 36 percent off, the Cloudfoam Cuxxion Lounge Shoes will keep sweaty feet at bay throughout the coming months, even as temperatures soar. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 29 July 2026

Israelis fear Iranian control of the strait will be a nail in the coffin of keeping Iran’s ambitions for a nuclear weapon at bay. — Ron Kampeas, The Washington Examiner, 25 July 2026

The whitewashed building’s accessible only by a five-minute speedboat ride or helicopter, keeping the hoi polloi at bay; the skipper and boat come bundled for your use during your stay, as does a hostess and cook. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026

Rhymes for at bay

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway