| 1. to hold together
1) any whole, lest it fall to pieces or something fall away from it 2. to hold together with constraint, to compress 1) to press together with the hand 1) to hold one's ears, to shut the heavens that it may not rain 2) to press on every side 2b1. of a besieged city 2b2. of a strait, that forces a ship into a narrow channel 2b3. of a cattle squeeze, that pushing in on each side, forcing the beast into a position where it cannot move so the farmer can administer medication 3. to hold completely 1) to hold fast 3a1. of a prisoner 2) metaph. 3b1. to be held by, closely occupied with any business 3b2. in teaching the word 3b3. to constrain, oppress, of ills laying hold of one and distressing him 3b4. to be held with, afflicted with, suffering from 3b5. to urge, impel 3b51. of the soul |