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 figuratively

The doctors have been able to keep her illness at bay for several months.

Examples of at bay in a Sentence

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How to Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Because viruses like flu can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours, experts recommend daily disinfecting of high-touch areas and items during cold and flu season to keep germs at bay. —

Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Dec. 2024 City had chances through Jeremy Doku and Ilkay Gundogan but Juve managed to keep them at bay before doubling their lead on the counter attack. —

Adam Digby, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024 Our top picks are comfortable, durable, sweat-wicking, and help keep hot spots at bay. —

Maggie Slepian, Travel + Leisure, 10 Dec. 2024 Maryland owned a 62-57 lead with 8:25 to go in the second half, but the Boilermakers responded with a 10-0 run and then added a 10-5 spurt for a 10-point advantage — the only double-digit lead of the game — to pull away and keep the Terps at bay. —

Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 8 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for at bay