Definition

A thing that prevents progress or keeps something in place, often used to describe a restriction or limitation.

Example

The holdback on the project was due to budget constraints.

Conversation

I think there’s a real holdback on how much we can achieve together.

Yeah, it feels like something is slowing us down.

Maybe we need to figure out what's causing that holdback in our plans.

Definitely! Identifying it will help us move forward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Holdback → It is formed from "hold" (from Old English "healdan", meaning to keep or maintain) and "back" (meaning to move to the rear or away). The word "holdback" means to keep something from moving forward or to restrain.

Memory Tip

Think of 'keeping' something ('hold') 'away' ('back') — that's why holdback means to restrain or prevent progress.

Visually Confused Words