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

Heisman frontrunner Jeremiah Smith scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter with a spectacular catch, and Ohio State's defense repeatedly stood tall during the fourth quarter, holding the reigning national champions at bay. — Ryan Canfield Outkick, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2026

Sean Johnson turned away six shots for DC United to keep the Red Bulls at bay. — CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026

These special vehicle blankets were placed on the cars to hold the fire at bay while other vehicles in the path of the fire were moved away, officials said. — Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Oct. 2026

But several shoppers say the balls have helped keep rodents at bay in different areas of their homes. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Oct. 2026

Rhymes for at bay

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