hold 1 of 2

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as in to contain
to have within the mysterious chest held an ancient book on magic spells and potions

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as in to accommodate
to make or have room for the couple needed to rent a hall that would hold 300 people

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as in to aim
to point or turn (something) toward a target or goal held the camera on the actor throughout the scene

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

hold

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noun

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as in grip
the act or manner of holding make sure you have a firm hold on the chain saw before you turn it on

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as in contact
the state or fact of being able to exchange information regarding one's current situation I worry that I won't be able to get hold of you in an emergency

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word hold different from other verbs like it?

The words accommodate and contain are common synonyms of hold. While all three words mean "to have or be capable of having within," hold implies the capacity of containing or the usual or permanent function of containing or keeping.

the bookcase will hold all my textbooks

When is it sensible to use accommodate instead of hold?

The words accommodate and hold are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, accommodate stresses holding without crowding or inconvenience.

the hall can accommodate 500 people

When would contain be a good substitute for hold?

While the synonyms contain and hold are close in meaning, contain implies the actual presence of a specified substance or quantity within something.

the can contains a quart of oil

Thesaurus Entries Near hold

Cite this Entry

“Hold.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hold. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on hold

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