1. [verb] (transitive) To control or keep in check.
2. [verb] (transitive) To deprive of liberty.
3. [verb] (transitive) To restrict or limit.
4. [verb] Keep under control; keep in check; 'suppress a smile'; 'Keep your temper'; 'keep your cool'.
5. [verb] Place limits on (extent or access); 'restrict the use of this parking lot'; 'limit the time you can spend with your friends'.
6. [verb] To close within bounds, limit or hold back from movement; 'This holds the local until the express passengers change trains'; 'About a dozen animals were held inside the stockade'; 'The illegal immigrants were held at a detention center'; 'The terrorists held the journalists for ransom'.
7. [verb] Hold back.
8. [verb] To compel or deter by or as if by threats.
