at bay
idiomTo save this word, you'll need to log in.
Definition of at bay
: in the position of being unable to move closer while attacking or trying to approach someone
—used with keep or holdThe soldiers kept the attackers at bay. —often used figurativelyThe doctors have been able to keep her illness at bay for several months.
Comments on at bay
What made you want to look up at bay? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Semantic Drift Quiz
- Which of the following was once a synonym for fun?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share at bay