Hold back

Pronunciation: /ˈhoʊɫd ˈbæk/

Hold back (verb)

  1. To prevent someone or something from moving forward or leaving.
  2. To make an action happen later than planned.
  3. To limit growth, improvement, or success by creating problems or restrictions.

Examples

  • The guard held back the crowd at the gate.
  • The rope held back the boat from the rocks.