Synonyms of hold on

hold on

verb

1

as in to remain

to remain indefinitely in existence or in the same state

the ancient beliefs still held on in remote mountain villages

Synonyms & Similar Words

• remain
• continue
• last
• persist
• run on
• stay
• endure
• hold up
• keep up
• survive
• abide
• bide
• stick around
• linger
• perdure
• prevail
• carry through
• tarry

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stop
• die
• pass
• end
• wind up
• conclude
• finish
• close
• cease
• terminate
• die (down)
• quit
• expire
• discontinue
• leave off
• lapse
• desist
• moderate
• subside
• abate
• let up
• wane
• ebb

2

as in to wait

to remain in place in readiness or expectation of something

hold on a minute—it's not your turn

Synonyms & Similar Words

• wait
• stay
• hold one's breath
• sit tight
• bide one's time
• await
• cool one's heels
• remain
• hang around
• linger
• stick around
• bide
• stand by
• watch (for)
• expect
• anticipate
• tarry

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hold on

The 2025 Oscars, held on March 2, delivered a five-year high in both total viewers (19.69 million) and adults 18-49 (4.54 rating) and ranked as the No. 1 primetime entertainment telecast in both total viewers and adults for the 2024-25 season. —Paul Grein, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2025

The Celtics nearly let go of their lead by allowing 11 points over the final 1:26, but Payton Pritchard, who established an NBA record for most 3-pointers off the bench in a single season, sank several key free throws to hold on. —Jay King, The Athletic, 16 Mar. 2025

These examples from our common cultural heritage prove that the Left’s hold on the arts need not amount to a permanent victory. —Peter Tonguette, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 14 Mar. 2025

He was held on a $250,000 bond and was schedule to be arraigned at Derby Superior Court on Thursday. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 6 Mar. 2025