Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

hold fast

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: Zipf frequency 4.86 in modern English

Syllables
hold -fast
IPA
15
Scrabble Score
8
Letters
2
Syllables
8
Unique Chars

Meaning

verb

A formal command to a ship's crew to grasp and hold on to a solid fitting, such as ropes or rails, to avoid being swept overboard, especially during a storm.

Example Sentences

Etymology

A verbal phrase composed of the words: hold ("grasp", "grip") and fast ("resolutely", "steadfastly").

Inflected Forms

Phrases

Frequently Paired Words

Synonyms

Antonyms

let go leave go leave hold

Questions

What does hold fast mean?
To stubbornly resist assault, pressure or opposition, either physically or mentally.
Where does hold fast come from?
A verbal phrase composed of the words: hold ("grasp", "grip") and fast ("resolutely", "steadfastly").

How to pronounce hold fast

  1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “hold fast”.
  2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
  3. Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “hold fast”.
  4. Repeat and practice — Say “hold fast” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.