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
Rather, investors should focus on structuring their portfolio to withstand whatever awaits them and keep their emotions at bay.
—
Jonathan I. Shenkman, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
Lupin beans can help to reduce blood sugar spikes, keep bad cholesterol at bay, regulate blood pressure, and strengthen bones thanks to the fiber, omega-3 and -6 content, and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2024
Another reason for blocking VPNs is to keep bots at bay.
—Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 28 Dec. 2024
Crawl-space vents were designed to allow airflow under the house, in theory releasing hot and humid air to keep mold at bay and protect the foundation from crumbling.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for at bay 
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Jonathan I. Shenkman, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
Lupin beans can help to reduce blood sugar spikes, keep bad cholesterol at bay, regulate blood pressure, and strengthen bones thanks to the fiber, omega-3 and -6 content, and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2024
Another reason for blocking VPNs is to keep bots at bay.
—Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 28 Dec. 2024
Crawl-space vents were designed to allow airflow under the house, in theory releasing hot and humid air to keep mold at bay and protect the foundation from crumbling.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 Dec. 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 4 Jan. 2025.
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