withheld
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /wɪðˈhɛld/
KK: /wɪðˈhɛld/
adjective
Definition
Not given or shared; kept back from someone or something.
Example
The information was withheld from the public for security reasons.
Conversation
Did you hear about the news that was withheld from the public?
Yeah, I can't believe they kept that information hidden for so long.
It makes you wonder what else might be withheld from us.
For sure! Transparency is so important these days.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
retained
reserved
hidden
Antonyms
revealed
disclosed
shared
verb
Definition
To keep something back or not allow it to be given or shared.
Example
The teacher withheld the test results until all students had completed the exam.
Tense Forms
Past: withheld
Past Participle: withheld
Conversation
I heard you withheld some information from the meeting yesterday.
Yeah, I thought it was better to keep it to myself for now.
That makes sense, but do you think it will help in the long run if you withheld it?
Root Explanation
Withheld → It is formed from "with-" (meaning against or away) and "holdan" (from Old English, meaning to hold). The word "withheld" means to hold back or keep something away from someone.
Memory Tip
Think of holding something 'away' ('with-') from someone — that's why withheld means to keep something back.
Visually Confused Words
unwithheld
writhed
witched