Synonyms of holding water

holding water

phrase

present participle of hold water

as in flying

to withstand scrutiny and gain acceptance or approval

a weak explanation that doesn't hold water

Synonyms & Similar Words

• flying
• standing up
• holding up
• working
• passing muster
• passing
• washing
• going down
• going over
• getting through
• going through
• playing
• taking

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of holding water

By holding water on the land, these peatlands not only reduce the risk of flooding downstream, but also buffer the landscape against drought, keeping soils moist and supporting nearby forests through dry spells. — Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

Hot water at the handwash sink was measured above proper hot holding water temperature. — Sacbee.com, 16 Oct. 2026

People were milling about in flip-flops, holding water jugs, smoking cigarettes—little to do, nowhere to go. — Ben Taub, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026

Bar drain plugs were not holding water without aid of plastic disposable gloves. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 17 July 2026