hold definition
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hold up
Offer or present as an example, as in The teacher held Bernie's essay up as a model for the class to follow. [c. 1600]
Obstruct or delay, as in We were held up in traffic. [c. 1900]
Rob, as in He was held up in a dark alley, with no help nearby. This usage, which gave rise to the noun holdup for a robbery, alludes to the robbers' demand that the victims hold their hands high. [Late 1800s]
Also, hold out. Continue to function without losing force or effectiveness, endure. For example, We held up through that long bitter winter, or The nurse was able to hold out until someone could relieve her. [Late 1500s]
See hold one's head high.