holding

noun

1. 1

   Something that one owns, especially stocks and bonds.

   Although this survey lists only a small number of representative materials in the Hoover Library's Baltic Collection, a comprehensive view of the library's holdings can be gained from the Hoover Institution's card catalog or its printed equivalent

   Italy's right-wing prime minister was about to cure his biggest headache by selling the state's holding in a troubled airline, Alitalia.

   The defender at third position is supposed to keep the partner informed of his holdings in that suit.

2. 2

   A determination of law made by a court.

3. 3

   A tenure; a farm or other estate held of another.

   Take again From this my hand, as holding of the Pope Your sovereign greatness and authority.

4. 4

   obsoleteLogic; consistency.

   This has no holding, To swear by him whom I protest to love That I will work against him.

5. 5

   A foul consisting of impermissibly restricting the movement of an opposing player with the hands or stick.

6. 6

   obsoleteThe burden or chorus of a song.

   Make battery to our ears with the loud music; The while I'll place you; then the boy shall sing. The holding every man shall beat as loud As his strong sides can volley.

7. 7

   obsoleteThat which holds, binds, or influences; hold; influence; power.

   This is one of the principal holdings of that destructive system, which has endeavoured to unhinge all the virtuous, honourable, and useful connexions in the kingdom.

8. 8

   A holding company, or other kind of company.

verb

1. 1

   Also a form of holdpresent participle and gerund of hold

   They were caught holding hands in the dark.

   Then came a maid with hand-bag and shawls, and after her a tall young lady. She stood for a moment holding her skirt above the grimy steps,[…], and the light of the reflector fell full upon her.

Forms

plural

holdings