# hold fast

> English word · Verb

## Definitions
1. To stubbornly resist assault, pressure or opposition, either physically or mentally.
2. 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.

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

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/hold-fast