hold on

verb

held on; holding on; holds on
Synonyms of hold onnext

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

see also hold on 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.
He is being held on no bond at Mecklenburg County Jail. Charlotte Observer, 29 Jan. 2026 The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say. Ca Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Police said Acevedo has been released on bond, while AlarconSanchez and Derce Lara are being held on immigration detainers. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Real estate agents say homeowners increasingly want to take the next step in their lives and are deciding to move rather than hold on to their ultra-low mortgage rates. Hailey Wang, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026 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 1 Feb. 2026.

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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