How Do You Spell HELD AT BAY?

Pronunciation: [hˈɛld at bˈe͡ɪ] (IPA)

The phrase "held at bay" is commonly used to describe something or someone being kept under control, at a distance. It is pronounced /hɛld/ /æt/ /beɪ/. The "h" at the beginning of the word is silent, the "e" is pronounced with an "eh" sound, the "l" is pronounced with a "luh" sound, and the "d" at the end is pronounced with a "duh" sound. The word "bay" is pronounced with a long "ae" sound, similar to saying "bake" without the "k".

HELD AT BAY Meaning and Definition

1. "Held at bay" is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe a situation in which a person or a group is being kept under control or restrained, often with great effort or determination. It refers to preventing someone or something from advancing, approaching, or causing harm. The phrase has its origins in hunting, where hunters would use spears or other weapons to keep dangerous or aggressive animals at a safe distance.

   Metaphorically, when someone or something is being "held at bay," it means that they are being kept in check or prevented from causing trouble or becoming a threat. It signifies maintaining control or keeping someone or something at a distance to prevent their progress or negative influence. It suggests a defensive stance or a strategy to keep adversaries or challenging circumstances from getting closer or gaining an upper hand.

   The expression implies a sense of vigilance, resilience, or determination in keeping a potentially harmful situation or adversary in check. It can denote maintaining a strong mental or physical position to ward off threats or difficulties. For example, a person might hold their fears at bay while facing a challenging situation, or a company may hold its competitors at bay by maintaining a competitive advantage.

   In summary, "held at bay" signifies the act of keeping someone or something under control or restrained, preventing their advance or potential harm. It conveys a sense of vigilance, determination, and defensive measures to keep difficult or threatening situations in check.

Common Misspellings for HELD AT BAY

• geld at bay
• beld at bay
• neld at bay
• jeld at bay
• ueld at bay
• yeld at bay
• hwld at bay
• hsld at bay
• hdld at bay
• hrld at bay
• h4ld at bay
• h3ld at bay
• hekd at bay
• hepd at bay
• heod at bay
• hels at bay
• helx at bay
• helc at bay
• helf at bay
• helr at bay