Synonyms for

Holding

Verb / ˈhəʊldɪŋ / Another word for holding — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of keeping something, or the state of being kept.

Synonyms & similar words

reserve bind disagree gofor concur harbor curb maintain harbour contain belongings oblige take book letgoof retain halt support withstand keeping bear agree confine admit give grasp clutch grip embrace contain enclose carry possess own retain maintain sustain support uphold keep store stock reserve hoard conserve

Synonyms by register

Formal

possession custody retention occupancy

Informal

grip clutch keeping

Literary

keeping clasp

Antonyms

releasing dropping letting go abandoning freeing ceding

Common collocations

  • holding on
  • holding back
  • holding up
  • holding down
  • holding out
  • holding onto
  • holding dear

Word family

noun holding
verb hold
adjective holding
adverb holdingly

Usage note

As a noun, 'holding' often refers to a possession or a stake in something, especially in a business context. It can also refer to the act of keeping something.

Example sentences

  1. She was holding a balloon in her hand.
  2. The teacher was holding a book under her arm.
  3. The bank is holding my money until I need it.
  4. The holding of the trophy was a proud moment for the team.
  5. The holding cell was small and uncomfortable.

Quotes

  • "The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority." - Ken Blanchard
  • "Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed." - Cavett Robert
  • "You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do." - Henry Ford

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words