Holder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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holder

[ˈhəʊldər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person

A person who owns or possesses something.

Synonyms

bearer, owner, possessor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
holder

Commonly used to describe someone who has possession of a tangible or intangible item, often temporarily. It's often used in legal and financial contexts.

  • She is the holder of the winning lottery ticket.
  • The ticket holder should present their ID at the entrance.
owner

Specifically refers to someone who possesses something with full rights, typically in a legal sense. Often used in property and business contexts.

  • He is the owner of the house on the corner.
  • The dog’s owner must keep it on a leash in public places.
possessor

Indicates someone who has possession of something, often implying ownership or control. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The possessor of this rare coin is very fortunate.
  • The unauthorized possessor of the document might face legal consequences.
bearer

Usually refers to someone who carries something, often a document or message. Often used in formal or official situations.

  • The bearer of this letter is entitled to receive a package.
  • Bearers of good news are always welcome.

Examples of usage

  • She is the holder of the winning ticket.
  • He is the holder of the record for the fastest marathon time.
Context #2 | Noun

device

A device or object used to hold or support something.

Synonyms

container, fixture, support.

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Word Description / Examples
holder

Used to refer to an object that holds or stores something securely, often for small items that need steady placement.

  • Pen holder, cup holder, phone holder
container

Refers to any object used for storing or transporting items. It is generally a broader term that can apply to anything from small bottles to large shipping units.

  • Water container, food container, storage container
support

Describes an item or structure that holds up or bears the weight of something, used in a wide range of contexts from construction to everyday items.

  • Shelf support, structural support, knee support
fixture

Usually refers to something fixed in place, often installed and semi-permanent. Commonly used in construction, home improvement, or mechanical contexts.

  • Light fixture, plumbing fixture, bathroom fixture

Examples of usage

  • The cup holder in the car is convenient for holding drinks.
  • The phone holder on the tripod keeps the device stable for filming.
Context #3 | Noun

financial

A person or entity that legally owns a financial instrument or security.

Synonyms

debtholder, investor, shareholder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
holder

General term used for someone who possesses or owns something. It can refer to physical items or rights and titles.

  • The holder of the ticket must present it upon entry
  • The holder of the contract can enforce its terms
investor

A broad term for someone who allocates capital with the expectation of a financial return. This can include stocks, bonds, real estate, or other assets.

  • The investor carefully assessed the startup before providing funds
  • Young investors are often more willing to take risks
shareholder

Specific term for someone who owns shares in a corporation, essentially part-owners of the company. Shareholders have certain rights such as voting at annual meetings and receiving dividends.

  • The shareholders were pleased with the quarterly dividend increase
  • A majority shareholder has significant influence over company decisions
debtholder

Specific term used in finance to describe an individual or entity that possesses debt instruments like bonds. It often refers to someone who lent money and expects repayment with interest.

  • The debtholders were concerned about the company's ability to repay the bond
  • Many debtholders sold their securities following the financial downturn

Examples of usage

  • The bond holder is entitled to receive interest payments.
  • The stock holder has voting rights in the company.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In programming, a 'holder' can refer to a temporary variable that keeps data while it's being processed.
  • Smartphone makers have designed various types of holders to improve user convenience, like car mounts and charging stands.
  • Software applications often include 'holders' for file access, allowing users to organize and manage documents more efficiently.

Art

  • In sculpture, a 'holder' can refer to the base or frame that supports a statue, ensuring it stays upright and stable.
  • Art installations often use holders creatively to present and support various artistic materials, enhancing the design's appeal.
  • Photographers use different types of holders for film or digital media to secure their shots while capturing images.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'holder space' is crucial in therapy, describing a safe environment where clients feel secure sharing their feelings.
  • In relationships, being a 'holder' often relates to emotional support, where one partner helps the other feel safe and valued.
  • Holding memories, both physically and emotionally, plays a significant role in shaping identity and interpersonal connections.

Business

  • In finance, a 'holder' can refer to an investor who possesses shares and has rights to dividends.
  • The term 'stakeholder' represents individuals or groups that have an interest in the success of a business or project.
  • Various industries utilize holders, from property holders in real estate to patent holders in technology, reflecting ownership.

Origin of 'holder'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'holder' comes from the Old English term 'holdan,' meaning to keep or maintain.
  • It became common in the English language around the 14th century, typically referring to someone who possesses something.
  • The suffix '-er' indicates a person or thing that performs an action, making 'holder' a term for anything that holds.

The word 'holder' originated from Middle English 'holdere', which was derived from the Old English word 'gehaeldere', meaning 'a possessor'. The term evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to ownership, support, and financial instruments. The concept of a holder has been integral in legal and financial contexts, defining rights and responsibilities. Today, 'holder' continues to be a versatile word used in everyday language to refer to individuals, objects, and entities that hold or possess something.


See also: held, hold, holders, holding, holdings, holdup, uphold, upholding, withhold, withholding.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,860, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.