hold on

verb

held on; holding on; holds on

intransitive verb

1
a
: to maintain a condition or position : persist
b
: to maintain a grasp on something : hang on
2
: to await something (such as a telephone connection) desired or requested
broadly : wait
Phrases
hold on to
: to maintain possession of or adherence to

Examples of hold on in a Sentence

the ancient beliefs still held on in remote mountain villages hold on a minute—it's not your turn
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say. Ca Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 21 Oct. 2025 Boyter still has a 12-pack plus a few extra cans left, opting to savor them for birthdays and special occasions, while Pierce is holding on strong to her four remaining 12-packs. Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025 Shelton was transported to the Clinton County Adult Detention Center and is being held on a $2-million bond. Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Oct. 2025 We were caught between fleeing southward and holding on to hope. Literary Hub, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hold on

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of hold on was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hold on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hold%20on. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

hold on

verb
1
: to keep a hold
2

More from Merriam-Webster on hold on

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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