hold out Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. verb thrust or extend out
   stretch out; extend; exsert; stretch forth; put out.
   
   • He held out his hand
   • point a finger
   • extend a hand
   • the bee exserted its sting
2. verb stand up or offer resistance to somebody or something
   resist; withstand; stand firm.
   
3. verb last and be usable
   wear; endure.
   
   • This dress wore well for almost ten years
4. verb wait uncompromisingly for something desirable
   
   • He held out for the dessert and did not touch the cheeses
5. verb continue to live through hardship or adversity
   live on; last; hold up; live; endure; go; survive.
   
   • We went without water and food for 3 days
   • These superstitions survive in the backwaters of America
   • The race car driver lived through several very serious accidents
   • how long can a person last without food and water?

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