hold out
phrasal verbhold out
- to last, especially in a difficult situation
- We can stay here for as long as our supplies hold out.
- to resist or survive in a dangerous or difficult situation
- The rebels held out in the mountains for several years.
hold out something
- to offer a chance, hope or possibility of something
- Doctors hold out little hope of her recovering.
hold something out
- to put your hand or arms, or something in your hand, towards somebody, especially to give or offer something
- I held out my hand to steady her.
- He held out the keys and I took them.