How Do You Spell HOLD COURT?

Pronunciation: [hˈə͡ʊld kˈɔːt] (IPA)

The phrase "hold court" means to preside over a gathering or take charge of a situation. The spelling of this phrase is fairly straightforward, with "hold" pronounced /hoʊld/ and "court" pronounced /kɔrt/. The "o" in "hold" is pronounced as the diphthong /oʊ/ and the "ou" in "court" is pronounced as a monophthong /ɔ/. Together, they create a rhythmic and melodious phrase that conveys authority and control. Next time you need to take charge, consider using the phrase "hold court" to assert your dominance.

HOLD COURT Meaning and Definition

1. To "hold court" typically refers to an authoritative figure, often a powerful individual or a person of high status, presiding over a meeting or gathering to listen to and resolve disputes or issues. The term can also imply a person exhibiting social influence or holding influence over a group of people. The expression's origin can be traced back to literal courts where monarchs, rulers, or judges held sessions to deliver judgments and administer justice.

   Metaphorically, "hold court" suggests a person adopting a position of authority and attracting widespread attention through their demeanor, actions, or presence. It signifies a person's ability to captivate and dominate conversations or discussions, often in a charismatic or commanding manner. When someone "holds court," they exhibit confidence and charisma, commanding attention and respect from the attendees. It may also imply that the person's opinions or decisions are taken seriously and are influential within the group they are addressing.

   Furthermore, the phrase can encompass the idea of someone being the center of attention or the focal point of a social gathering. This individual often holds court by engaging in storytelling, sharing experiences, or delivering speeches that captivate the listeners' interest. The term signifies the metaphorical creation of an "official" or authoritative space within a social setting, where the person "holding court" assumes a role of influence, dominance, and control over the flow of conversation.

Common Misspellings for HOLD COURT

• gold court
• bold court
• nold court
• jold court
• uold court
• yold court
• hild court
• hkld court
• hlld court
• hpld court
• h0ld court
• h9ld court
• hokd court
• hopd court
• hood court
• hols court
• holx court
• holc court
• holf court
• holr court

Etymology of HOLD COURT

The phrase "hold court" originates from the world of law courts and derives from both Old English and Old French.

The word "hold" comes from the Old English word "healdan", meaning "to grasp" or "to keep". It eventually developed into the word "hold" in Middle English, which denotes the act of maintaining control or possession.

The word "court" has its roots in both Old English and Old French. In Old English, the term "curt" referred to the enclosed yard of a noble or high-ranking person, specifically the king's court. Meanwhile, in Old French, the word "court" referred to both the residential building of a sovereign or high-ranking noble and the assembly of his followers or attending nobles.

Idioms with the word HOLD COURT

• hold court (with somebody) To hold court with somebody means to be the center of attention in a group, usually while speaking confidently or authoritatively on a topic. It can also imply someone having an audience who listens attentively to what the person is saying.
• hold court To hold court means to attract and keep the attention of others by speaking or performing in a confident, commanding manner. It can also refer to someone being at the center of attention or in charge of a situation.