holding

word · lemma: hold

/ˈhoʊɫdɪŋ/
HOHL-ding
/hˈəʊldɪŋ/
HOHL-ding

Definition

The act of having or keeping something in your hands, or something owned such as land, shares, or property. Also, a company that owns shares in other companies.

Usage & Nuances

As a noun, common in legal, financial, and business contexts ("share holding", "real estate holding"). As a verb form (present participle), describes the action of gripping or supporting. 'Holding company' refers to a company owning other companies. Don’t confuse with 'hold on' (wait) or confuse noun/adjective with present participle.

Example Sentences

She is holding her baby in her arms.

basic

He increased his holding of company shares.

basic

What are you holding behind your back?

natural

The museum has an impressive holding of ancient art.

basic

She works for a big holding that owns several tech companies.

natural

Their family's land holding goes back generations.

natural