hold on

verb

held on; holding on; holds on

intransitive verb

1

a

: to maintain a condition or position : persist

b

: to maintain a grasp on something : hang on

2

: to await something (such as a telephone connection) desired or requested

broadly : wait

Phrases

hold on to

: to maintain possession of or adherence to

Synonyms

• abide
• bide
• continue
• endure
• hold up
• keep up
• last
• perdure
• persist
• remain
• run on

Examples of hold on in a Sentence

the ancient beliefs still held on in remote mountain villages

hold on a minute—it's not your turn

Recent Examples on the Web

The Great Escape festival is held on an annual basis every May in the seaside city of Brighton, and spotlights emerging and rising talent from the U.K. and Ireland as well as international newcomers. —Thomas Smith, Billboard, 10 Apr. 2025

All Arab countries have said a halt in the fighting and security for Palestinians is necessary before any more talks can be held on building ties with Israel. —The Hill, 9 Apr. 2025

His funeral was held on the stage of the Majestic, where the set of Camelot was draped in black velours. —Frank Rich, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2025

The event will be held on Tuesday, April 15, from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Carmel Valley Library (3919 Townsgate Drive). —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for hold on

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon

Kids Definition

hold on

verb

1

: to keep a hold

2

: wait entry 1 sense 1a