Held Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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held
[held ]
Definitions
in a grip
Grasp, carry, or support with one's arms or hands.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| held |
The past tense of 'hold'. Used when something was kept in someone's hand or arms for some period of time.
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| grasp |
Used when grabbing something quickly and firmly, often to hold it tightly.
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| grip |
Used when holding something tightly, often due to strength or fear. It can have a negative connotation depending on the context.
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| carry |
Used when lifting or transporting something from one place to another.
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| support |
Used when providing assistance, often by holding something or someone up. It can be physical or emotional support.
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Examples of usage
- He held the baby gently in his arms.
- She held the fragile vase with care.
keep in one's possession
Have or retain possession of.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| held |
Used to describe something being physically or figuratively grasped or controlled, often for a temporary period.
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| possess |
Similar to 'own,' but slightly more formal; it can imply both physical ownership and having a particular quality or ability.
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| own |
Implies having legal ownership of something; it often suggests a sense of pride or possession over property or assets.
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| keep |
Refers to maintaining possession or control of something for a longer period, often implying care or safeguarding.
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| retain |
To continue to have something in your possession or control, often in the context of keeping something that might otherwise be lost or given up.
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Examples of usage
- She held onto the precious locket.
- He held the key to the safe.
a meeting or gathering
An event or gathering where people come together for a specific purpose.
Synonyms
assembly, conference, gathering, meeting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| held |
This word is used to specify that an event took place or was organized. It's a verb and usually needs more context to specify what kind of event was 'held'.
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| meeting |
Used for planned occasions where people come together to discuss business or organizational matters. Typically used in a professional context.
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| gathering |
A general term that can be used informally for social events or more formal occasions. It often implies a smaller and more intimate group.
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| conference |
Used in professional or academic contexts, where people discuss specific topics or issues over a period of time. Typically, these are scheduled events involving multiple speakers.
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| assembly |
Used for large formal gatherings, often for a specific purpose like legislative or educational settings. It implies organized, often official, gatherings.
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Examples of usage
- She attended a town hall held to discuss community issues.
- The conference held various workshops and presentations.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In popular songs, the theme of being 'held' frequently symbolizes love and emotional support, like in the song 'Hold Me' by Michael Bublé.
- The concept of being 'held' is often portrayed in films as a comforting action that connects characters emotionally, embodying themes of care and intimacy.
- In literature, characters often reflect on moments when they were 'held' to signify safety or a sense of belonging.
Psychology
- Studies show that physical touch, such as being embraced or 'held', can significantly reduce stress and anxiety by releasing oxytocin, known as the 'love hormone'.
- Research indicates that feeling 'held' can foster a sense of security, especially in early childhood development.
- Psychologists recognize the concept of 'holding environments,' referring to spaces (both physical and emotional) where individuals feel safe and supported.
Education
- In educational contexts, the term 'held' can describe how students are supported or guided, especially in collaborative learning.
- Teachers often emphasize the importance of students feeling 'held' in a nurturing environment to enhance engagement and participation.
- The concept of 'held accountability' is crucial in educational leadership, where leaders focus on supporting educators in achieving high standards.
Social Customs
- In various cultures, the act of holding hands is a common gesture of affection and connection between people, symbolizing unity.
- During ceremonies or rituals, participants often hold objects like candles or flowers to signify commitment or remembrance.
- In many cultures, parents hold their children close as a form of reassurance and protection, which is vital for emotional bonding.
Origin of 'held'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'held' is the past tense of 'hold', which comes from the Old English 'haldian', meaning to keep or possess.
- In Middle English, 'held' was often used to express not just physical holding but also emotional attachment.
- The word has undergone spelling changes from 'halden' in Old High German, reflecting its long history across languages.
The word 'held' originates from Middle English 'helden', past participle of 'holden', which comes from Old English 'healdan'. The concept of holding or grasping has been essential for human survival and communication since ancient times. It is a fundamental action that signifies control, possession, or support.
See also: hold, holder, holders, holding, holdings, holdup, uphold, upholding, withhold, withholding.