Phrase guide

hold the line

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To firmly maintain one's viewpoint, principles, or situation; to refuse to change one's practices or plans.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

hold the phone line open

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • Please hang on while I get your folder

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: hang on, hold on

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: expect, look, await, wait

3

verb

Meaning 3

hold the line on prices; keep the price of something constant

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: conserve, preserve, maintain, keep up

History

Etymology

Probably an allusion to a line of soldiers remaining steadfastly in position during combat.