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
But while the Commanders struggled with their offense, their defense was keeping the Packers at bay entering the fourth quarter with a 17-3 ballgame in favor of Green Bay.
—
Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Cleaning them regularly is the best way to keep fungus at bay.
—Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 12 Sep. 2025
The 4-liter model holds dry kibbles and has a locking lid to keep curious cats at bay.
—Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2025
The Commanders' offensive line and skill players will have to step up their pass protection in order to keep Parsons at bay on Thursday.
—Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for at bay
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.
Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Cleaning them regularly is the best way to keep fungus at bay.
—Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 12 Sep. 2025
The 4-liter model holds dry kibbles and has a locking lid to keep curious cats at bay.
—Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2025
The Commanders' offensive line and skill players will have to step up their pass protection in order to keep Parsons at bay on Thursday.
—Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for at bay
Cite this Entry
“At bay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20bay. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share