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What does hold back mean?

Looking for the meaning or definition of the word hold back? Here's what it means.

Verb
  1. (idiomatic, intransitive) To act with reserve; to contain one's full measure or power.
  2. (idiomatic, transitive) To contain; stop.
  3. (idiomatic, transitive) To delay the progress of, especially in school.
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Examples
When a woman isn't into a guy or sees him as threatening, she'll hold back her girlish giggle, the researchers add.
Seems he's learned to hold back the tears and keep a stiff upper lip when political operatives spread scurrilous lies and outright falsehoods.
Peers often hold back and may refer to the gifted person in derogatory terms.
This is a rough draft, which means that I already know I didn't nail it, so please don't hold back if you think something's wrong!
The King Canute mentality, which I believe is damagingly ingrained in City Hall, can no longer hold back the tide of change.
Those estate owners who could be affected by a community or crofting bid have tended to hold back to see what will happen.

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