at bay
idiom
: in the position of being unable to move closer while attacking or trying to approach someone
—used with keep or hold
The soldiers kept the attackers at bay.
—often used figurativelyThe doctors have been able to keep her illness at bay for several months.
Examples of at bay in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
From there another battle ensued: saving the tires and keeping Kyle Laron and Elliott at bay.
—
Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Its ionic technology keeps frizz at bay, giving hair that sleek, polished look.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 2 Nov. 2024
Climate change could have played a role in the unseasonably warm temperatures that are keeping the snowfall at bay, according to an analysis by Climate Central.
—Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 30 Oct. 2024
Routine is also essential for maintaining healthy sleep patterns and keeping stress at bay.
—Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for at bay 
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Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Its ionic technology keeps frizz at bay, giving hair that sleek, polished look.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 2 Nov. 2024
Climate change could have played a role in the unseasonably warm temperatures that are keeping the snowfall at bay, according to an analysis by Climate Central.
—Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 30 Oct. 2024
Routine is also essential for maintaining healthy sleep patterns and keeping stress at bay.
—Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for at bay
Dictionary Entries Near at bay
Cite this Entry
“At bay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20bay. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
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