1
as in remains
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 waits
to remain in place in readiness or expectation of something
hold on a minute—it's not your turn
Synonyms & Similar 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 holds on
The camera holds on them mid-ascent.
—
Jp Mangalindan, Time, 27 Jan. 2026
Jp Mangalindan, Time, 27 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holds on
Verb
-
Maurice Suh, a member of Chiles’ legal team, said in a statement that his client remains determined to keep the bronze medal she was awarded at the Paris Olympics.—
Chantz Martin,
FOXNews.com,
30 Jan. 2026
-
Iran’s internet connectivity has been partially restored, but experts are warning that, even on the other side of the digital blackout, the outlook for Iranian internet access remains bleak.—
Lauren Kent,
CNN Money,
30 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
In fact, upon check-in, your butler is alerted to your arrival and waits outside your room with a welcome drink, warm towel, and handy tips on navigating your room.—
Arati Menon,
Condé Nast Traveler,
30 Jan. 2026
-
Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio.—
Natasha Abellard,
CNBC,
30 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
The paralytic effect typically lasts for four to six minutes.—
Peter D'Abrosca,
FOXNews.com,
29 Jan. 2026
-
The formula is lightweight and lasts all day,, especially when paired with one of the brand’s body creams (Brazilian Bum Bum is our favorite).—
Andrea Navarro,
Glamour,
29 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
Your core temperature stays pretty warm.—
Ricky Sayer,
CBS News,
31 Jan. 2026
-
Having created the all-inclusive health and wellness resort experience, Canyon Ranch stays ahead of the curves in all ways.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
China continues to expand nuclear energy to meet rising electricity demand and climate goals.—
Aamir Khollam,
Interesting Engineering,
28 Jan. 2026
-
While speaking with The Sunday Times, Reilly shed some light on what viewers can expect to see from Beth as her story continues.—
Ashley Hume,
FOXNews.com,
28 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Holds on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holds%20on. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
