at bay

idiom

: 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

Oil-absorbing kaolin clay keeps shine at bay with zero sparkle, while squalane delivers deep hydration, making this blush a great pick even for drier skin. —Allure, 14 Aug. 2025

The elastic waist is has an adjustable drawstring, and the ankle cuffs have drawcords that can be tightened shut, keeping bugs and twigs at bay. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2025

But to avoid more serious consequences from future storms, United Illuminating recently began construction of a 16-foot-high steel floodwall around the substation to keep the waters at bay. —John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 12 Aug. 2025

However, when their biggest demonic enemy (Lee Byung-hun) encourages the formation of an equally popular K-pop boy band aimed at stealing the souls of their fans, the trio has to fight harder than ever to hold the demons at bay while keeping their friendship intact. —Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 8 Aug. 2025

Rhymes for at bay

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