Phrase guide
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
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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.
verb
To abandon somebody, leaving him or her holding the responsibility or blame.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: figuratively
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
verb
To remove the value from an article or arrangement and leave somebody holding the empty (or valueless) container.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: figuratively
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
History
Originated in 18th-century Britain, referring to a person left holding stolen goods while the rest of a criminal gang escapes.
Across languages
10 source translations are retained for this English entry.
