Top 18 Slang For Hold – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to navigating the ever-evolving world of slang, staying up-to-date is key. “Hold” is a term that has been gaining popularity in various online communities, but what does it really mean? Fear not, our team has done the research and compiled a list of the top slang terms for “hold” that will keep you in the know and ahead of the curve. Get ready to level up your slang game with this exciting listicle!

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1. Grip

To hold something tightly or firmly.

  • For example, “I gripped the steering wheel tightly as I drove through the storm.”
  • A person might say, “Make sure you grip the handlebars firmly when riding a bike.”
  • In a sports context, a coach might say, “You need to grip the bat properly to have a powerful swing.”

2. Clutch

To hold onto something tightly or securely.

  • For instance, “She clutched her purse tightly as she walked through the crowded street.”
  • In a suspenseful moment, a character might clutch onto a railing for support.
  • A person might say, “I clutched onto the edge of the cliff, afraid of falling.”

3. Grasp

To hold onto something firmly or with a strong grip.

  • For example, “He grasped the doorknob and turned it slowly.”
  • In a figurative sense, a person might say, “I finally grasped the concept after studying it for hours.”
  • A teacher might say, “Make sure you grasp the pencil properly for better control.”

4. Cling

To hold onto something tightly or to stick closely to something.

  • For instance, “The child clung to their mother’s leg, afraid to let go.”
  • In a romantic context, a person might say, “They clung to each other during the emotional goodbye.”
  • A person might say, “I clung to the handlebars as I rode down the bumpy road.”

5. Secure

To hold something in a safe and stable position.

  • For example, “She secured the ladder against the wall before climbing up.”
  • In a security context, a person might say, “We need to secure the perimeter to prevent unauthorized access.”
  • A parent might say, “Make sure you secure the baby in the car seat before driving.”

6. Support

This term refers to providing assistance or help to someone or something. It can also mean to endorse or advocate for a particular idea or cause.

  • For example, “I’ll support you in your decision to quit your job and pursue your passion.”
  • In a political discussion, someone might say, “I support this candidate because of their stance on healthcare.”
  • A team member might ask for support by saying, “Can you support me in this project by taking on some of the tasks?”

7. Embrace

To embrace is to hold someone or something close, usually with affection or warmth. It can also mean to accept or welcome something with open arms.

  • For instance, “She embraced her friend tightly after not seeing her for years.”
  • In a metaphorical sense, someone might say, “I embrace change and see it as an opportunity for growth.”
  • A person might express their love for a hobby by saying, “I fully embrace my passion for painting.”

8. Squeeze

To squeeze is to apply pressure with one’s hands or arms in a tight or constricting manner. It can also mean to fit into a tight space or to obtain something by exerting pressure.

  • For example, “She squeezed his hand for comfort during the scary movie.”
  • In a crowded elevator, someone might say, “Let’s all squeeze in to make room for more people.”
  • A person might say, “I squeezed some fresh orange juice for breakfast this morning.”

9. Clasp

To clasp is to hold onto something tightly or to fasten or secure something with a small device, such as a clasp or buckle.

  • For instance, “She clasped her hands together in prayer.”
  • In a jewelry store, someone might say, “I’m looking for a necklace with a secure clasp.”
  • A person might clasp their bag tightly in a crowded area to prevent theft.
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10. Anchor

To anchor is to hold something or someone firmly in place or to provide stability or support. It can also refer to a person or thing that serves as a source of stability or security.

  • For example, “He anchored the boat to the dock to prevent it from drifting away.”
  • In a news broadcast, the anchor might say, “We have breaking news. Stay tuned for updates.”
  • A person might say, “My family is my anchor in times of uncertainty.”

11. Hug

To hold someone tightly in one’s arms as a sign of affection or comfort. “Hug” is a common term used to describe a gentle or friendly hold between individuals.

  • For example, a parent might say, “Come here and give me a hug.”
  • In a romantic context, someone might say, “I just want to hug you and never let go.”
  • A friend might offer, “I can tell you’re upset, do you need a hug?”

12. Clench

To hold something tightly by closing the fingers tightly around it or by pressing the lips together in a tight manner. “Clench” typically describes a firm and determined hold.

  • For instance, a person experiencing anger or frustration might clench their fists.
  • Someone might say, “I had to clench my teeth to keep from yelling.”
  • In a fitness context, a trainer might instruct, “Clench your core muscles to maintain stability during this exercise.”

13. Bear hug

To hold someone tightly, often with great strength, in a manner similar to how a bear would hug. “Bear hug” is used to describe a particularly strong and enveloping hold.

  • For example, a person might say, “He gave me a bear hug when he saw me after a long time apart.”
  • In a playful context, someone might challenge, “I bet I can give you a bear hug you won’t be able to escape.”
  • A wrestler might use a bear hug as a grappling technique to immobilize their opponent.
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14. Grapple

To hold onto someone or something tightly while engaged in a physical struggle or wrestling match. “Grapple” can also refer to the act of trying to understand or deal with a difficult or complex situation.

  • For instance, two wrestlers might grapple with each other in an attempt to gain control.
  • In a metaphorical sense, a person might say, “I’m still grappling with the loss of a loved one.”
  • In a political context, someone might say, “The government is grappling with how to address the issue of climate change.”

15. Clamp

To hold something tightly in place using a device or mechanism that applies pressure. “Clamp” is often used to describe a strong and secure hold.

  • For example, a carpenter might use a clamp to hold two pieces of wood together while they are being glued.
  • In a medical context, a doctor might use a clamp to temporarily hold a blood vessel during surgery.
  • A person might say, “I had to clamp down on my spending to save money.”

16. Pinch

To hold or grip something tightly with one’s fingers or thumb and fingers. The term “pinch” often implies a firm and secure hold.

  • For instance, a parent might say to a child, “Pinch the pencil tightly so it doesn’t slip.”
  • In a cooking tutorial, the instructor might advise, “Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling.”
  • A person giving a massage might instruct the client, “Pinch the area between your thumb and forefinger to relieve tension.”

17. Cradle

To hold something gently and provide support, often in one’s arms or hands. The term “cradle” suggests a nurturing and protective hold.

  • For example, a mother might cradle her newborn baby in her arms.
  • A person comforting a friend might say, “Let me cradle you and help you feel better.”
  • In a conversation about fragile objects, someone might mention, “You need to cradle the delicate vase to avoid breaking it.”

18. Enfold

To hold something by wrapping or enclosing it within one’s arms or hands. The term “enfold” conveys a sense of embracing and enclosing.

  • For instance, a person might enfold a loved one in a warm hug.
  • In a romantic context, someone might say, “I want to enfold you in my arms and never let go.”
  • A person describing a comforting gesture might explain, “She enfolded me in a blanket to keep me warm.”