1
as in hampers
to create difficulty for the work or activity of
the only thing holding them back from joining the swim team is lack of transportation
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in stifles
to refrain from openly showing or uttering
held back her tears until she was alone
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holds back
Verb
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Let go of whatever impedes your progress and growth.—
Georgia Nicols,
The Denver Post,
2 Mar. 2025 -
However, any individual who impedes law enforcement operations, potentially threatening the safety of law enforcement agents and subjects of their investigations, is subject to investigation and potential prosecution by the Department of Justice.—
Matt Robison,
Newsweek,
25 Feb. 2025
Verb
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If a child swallows a button battery, experts recommend parents give them two teaspoons of honey every 10 minutes on their way to the hospital to coat the throat and reduce the risk of serious injury.—
Adrianna Rodriguez,
USA TODAY,
28 Nov. 2024
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If a child swallows a battery, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia also warns against trying to induce vomiting, giving any medication, drinking milk or water or trying the Heimlich maneuver.—
Adrianna Rodriguez,
USA TODAY,
28 Nov. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Holds back.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holds%20back. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.
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