hold up
The phrase "hold up" has multiple meanings, ranging from causing delays to supporting something physically or figuratively.
Definition
B2General
(informal)To wait or cause a delay.
Example
- The meeting was held up due to technical issues.
- Hold up a moment, I need to grab my keys.
B1General
To support or lift something.
Example
- He held up the sign for everyone to see.
- The beams hold up the roof.
B2Figurative
(idiomatic)To highlight or showcase something.
Example
- She held up his achievements as an example for others.
B2General
(idiomatic)To endure or remain strong under pressure or difficulty.
Example
- The old bridge is holding up well after all these years.
- She is holding up under the stress of her new job.
B2Criminal
(idiomatic)To rob someone, especially using force or threats.
Example
- The convenience store was held up last night.
- They held up the bank and escaped with the money.
B2General
To keep up or maintain a certain level or standard.
Example
- The team's performance has held up throughout the season.
- Her spirits held up despite the bad news.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hold up":
wait uphold onhold offhold ithang onhold outhole uphold instick uphaul uphold withhold tohold overstay uphands uphold backwait onhold the phonehold tightput uphang tighthold downhead upbear uphung uplift upkeep uphang upstand byon holdhold it inhold ontowait a minutewait forhold togetherback uphold it downprop upstop upstand uphey uppull up onheads uphem uppull uppost uphold my beerbig uphop upput up onbug uphang tenbung uphang uponstiff upease uphold timehang one onhung up onhang behind