1
as in to remain
to remain indefinitely in existence or in the same state
the ancient beliefs still held on in remote mountain villages
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to wait
to remain in place in readiness or expectation of something
hold on a minute—it's not your turn
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of hold on
However, Butler’s fadeaway from the baseline went long and the Clippers held on.
—
Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026
But the Bills have won three straight road games, pummeling the Pittsburgh Steelers, storming back to beat the New England Patriots and holding on against the Cleveland Browns.
—Tim Graham, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2026
This year’s luncheon will be held on Sunday, March 1, at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas.
—Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026
The Clippers ended up avoiding disaster and held on for a slim one-point victory, 103-102, as Jimmy Butler missed a potential game-winner.
—Michael Saponara, Billboard, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hold on
Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026
But the Bills have won three straight road games, pummeling the Pittsburgh Steelers, storming back to beat the New England Patriots and holding on against the Cleveland Browns.
—Tim Graham, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2026
This year’s luncheon will be held on Sunday, March 1, at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas.
—Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026
The Clippers ended up avoiding disaster and held on for a slim one-point victory, 103-102, as Jimmy Butler missed a potential game-winner.
—Michael Saponara, Billboard, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hold on
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hold on
Verb
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For many young women, the stiletto’s discomfort is part of the appeal, offering proof that effort and glamor remain in an age of casual sneakers.—
Eva Roytburg,
Fortune,
9 Nov. 2025
-
The quarterback situation remained dire.—
Ira Gorawara,
New York Times,
9 Nov. 2025
Verb
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Indiana’s defense didn’t wait long to make an impact.—
Jackson Thompson,
FOXNews.com,
10 Jan. 2026
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Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
10 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
Deputy Jaramillo’s legacy of integrity, compassion, and courage will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.—
Landon Mion,
FOXNews.com,
8 Nov. 2025
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After making 10 of its 15 three-point attempts in the first quarter, the Heat then missed 15 of its next 16 threes a stretch that continued well into the fourth quarter.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
8 Nov. 2025
Verb
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The best beanies for women are quintessential cold-weather hats that strike a delicate balance between staying warm and looking polished, even when the weather is anything but fashion-friendly.—
Alison Syrett Cleary,
InStyle,
9 Jan. 2026
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Kenady Barrett had 14 points and eight assists for Poyen (15-0, 5-0 2A-8), which stayed unbeaten.—
Erick Taylor,
Arkansas Online,
9 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Act fast to shop Amazon’s current hottest deals because prices aren’t guaranteed to last through the month.—
Chaise Sanders,
Travel + Leisure,
10 Jan. 2026
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Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for 3 days for each person in your home.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
10 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Hold on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hold%20on. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.
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