Hold court Meaning in English
expression
释义
To be the center of attention in a group, often by entertaining or talking in a lively way. Originally, it meant to hold a formal court session as a judge or king, but now it's mostly used for social situations.
用法与细微差别
Figurative and somewhat informal; often describes someone who likes to entertain or dominate conversations in a group. Commonly used for stories about lively parties, meetings, or personalities. Not used literally for legal courts unless context is clear.
例句
At every party, she loves to hold court and tell funny stories.
basic
He likes to hold court during lunch at work.
basic
The teacher would hold court in the hallway, chatting with students.
basic
Whenever John comes over, he starts to hold court and everyone listens to his stories.
natural
After the big win, the captain was holding court in the locker room, surrounded by teammates.
natural
You always hold court when you tell your travel adventures!
natural