Basic meaning: to carry or support something with your hands or arms

Example sentence: I held the baby gently in my arms.

Usage tip: Hold is irregular, so use held for both past tense and past participle.

Example sentence: Yesterday, I held the book while standing on the bus.

Usage tip: Hold can also be used in more abstract ways, like holding a position or holding a meeting.

Examples:

• She holds a high-ranking job at the company.
• We will hold a meeting at 3 p.m.