as in to limit
to set bounds or an upper limit for
efforts to hold down taxes keep running up against the legislature's ingrained unwillingness to cut spending
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in fastener
Related Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of hold down
Scott Chasen, Kansas City Star, 28 Oct. 2025
Perdue has lived a double life—having access to immense privilege and money from two business empires, while holding down a regular job and living frugally.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2025
Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 9 Apr. 2024
If the hold-down clamp is not tightened properly, the battery could move, allowing the positive terminal to contact the clamp and short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire, the company said.
—CBS News, 1 Nov. 2023
See All Example Sentences for hold down
Verb
The Chiefs, for the first time this season, would hold down an AFC playoff spot with a win.
—Scott Chasen, Kansas City Star, 28 Oct. 2025
Perdue has lived a double life—having access to immense privilege and money from two business empires, while holding down a regular job and living frugally.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2025
Noun
Then, 12 hold-down bolts fired and freed the Delta IV Heavy for its climb into space with a top-secret payload for the US government's spy satellite agency.
—Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 9 Apr. 2024
If the hold-down clamp is not tightened properly, the battery could move, allowing the positive terminal to contact the clamp and short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire, the company said.
—CBS News, 1 Nov. 2023
See All Example Sentences for hold down
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hold down
Verb
-
Nevertheless, the McAlarneys admit that keeping their children away from smartphones and limiting technology is easier said than done, especially in today’s digital age.—
Tereza Shkurtaj,
PEOPLE,
11 Jan. 2026
-
To prevent their flocks from contracting bird flu, officials suggest poultry owners keep their animals away from wild and migratory birds, isolate animals with signs of illness, disinfect equipment and other items, and limit the flock's contact with people.—
Laura Fay,
CBS News,
11 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
And new for the season, the brand presented a family of grainy leather and lightweight suede flap bags — in small and mini styles and sizes — with the signature H fastener.—
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
29 Sep. 2025
-
Thrills & Chills Pet Banana Costume The main part of this costume — the banana peel — wraps around her neck and stomach and is secured with a stretchy hook and loop fastener.—
Rachel Trujillo,
PEOPLE,
25 Sep. 2025
Verb
-
That is why the top area of the volcano is restricted, though not everyone pays heed.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
11 Jan. 2026
-
Carolina also has to make decisions on four pending restricted and two pending exclusive-rights free agents.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
11 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
The fund’s second top holding as of Friday’s close is Palantir Technologies, according to State Street’s website.—
Blair Bao,
CNBC,
8 Nov. 2025
-
And participants with the top 20% of stock holdings are especially optimistic.—
Jason Ma,
Fortune,
8 Nov. 2025
Verb
-
Progressive caucus members have also discussed legislation to tighten the reporting requirements for multinational corporations who might shift profits into tax havens offshore.—
Nicole Nixon,
Sacbee.com,
8 Jan. 2026
-
Georgia cut the lead to 59-52 on a 3-pointer by Kanon Catchings, but the Bulldogs missed their next seven of eight shots as Florida’s defense tightened its grip.—
Edgar Thompson,
The Orlando Sentinel,
7 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
This unique wrap top has sharp shoulders, pockets, and a waist tie to lend a flattering shape.—
Olivia Cigliano,
InStyle,
7 Jan. 2026
-
Maduro had cultivated deep ties with both China and Russia.—
Bobby Ghosh,
Time,
6 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
This incredibly lightweight, breathable windbreaker jacket has an adjustable bungee cord collar and waist for a custom fit, as well as two large pockets at the front.—
Amelia McBride,
Travel + Leisure,
11 Jan. 2026
-
The men’s version of the brand’s classic crewnec has ribbing at the collar, cuff, and hem, and it’s made of fleece that’s soft to the touch.—
Isabel Garcia,
PEOPLE,
10 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Hold down.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hold%20down. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share