The phrase "hold nose" can be spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /həʊld nəʊz/. The "h" is a voiceless glottal fricative, the "o" is pronounced as a long "o" sound, and the "l" is a clear "l" sound. The "d" is a voiced alveolar stop, while the "n" is a voiced alveolar nasal. Lastly, the "o" in "nose" is pronounced as a short "o" sound. This phrase is commonly used to describe an action of pinching one's nostrils shut, usually to block out an unpleasant smell.
To "hold nose" is a verb phrase that refers to the act of physically grasping or pressing one's nostrils or nasal passages with one's fingers or hand. This action is commonly performed as a response to a foul or unpleasant smell, in an attempt to block or diminish the odor that is detected by the olfactory sense.
The purpose of holding one's nose is to create a barrier that restricts the entry of air through the nostrils, thereby diminishing the intensity of the unpleasant smell. This gesture is usually characterized by a pinching motion, where one places their thumb and another finger either side of the nose, pressing it together. It is an instinctive or reflexive response that many people resort to in order to avoid inhaling strong odors or substances that could be irritating or noxious.
The phrase "hold nose" can also be used metaphorically to describe a figurative action or behavior of deliberately disregarding or suppressing one's dislike or disapproval of something, often in order to tolerate or endure an unpleasant or objectionable situation. In this context, it implies restraining one's natural instinct or reaction to express displeasure so as to maintain composure or harmony in a given environment or relationship.
In summary, "hold nose" refers to the act of closing or obstructing the nostrils with one's fingers to reduce the impact of unpleasant smells or can imply suppressing one's natural reaction to an unfavorable situation.
The phrase "hold nose" is not a word with an etymology. "Hold nose" is a verb phrase used to describe the action of physically gripping one's nose with one's hand or fingers, often done to block out an unpleasant smell or avoid breathing in something unpleasant. The phrase itself does not have a specific origin or etymology, as it is simply a combination of the words "hold" and "nose".