The phrase "holds together" is spelled with the letters h-o-l-d-s t-o-g-e-t-h-e-r. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is transcribed as /hoʊldz təˈɡɛðər/. The "h" sound at the beginning is followed by the long "o" sound in "hold". The "d" and "s" sounds are clearly pronounced, as well as the "t" and "g" sounds in "together". The "e" sounds are pronounced as a schwa, and the "r" sound at the end is also pronounced. Together, they create a vocal masterpiece of a phrase.
"Holds together" is a phrasal verb that means to maintain the unity, cohesiveness, or stability of something. It refers to the act of keeping different elements or parts of a whole connected or functioning harmoniously.
In a literal sense, "holds together" can describe the physical action of securing or fastening objects, thus preventing them from coming apart. This usage is often applied to tangible items such as ropes, adhesive substances, or mechanical devices.
Metaphorically, "holds together" is used to depict the functioning of systems, relationships, or groups, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation in maintaining their overall stability. It suggests that the different components or individuals involved need to work together effectively in order to ensure the success, continuity, or durability of the entity in question. For instance, a leader may be described as someone who holds together a team, artfully managing various personalities and motivating them towards a common goal.
In summary, "holds together" signifies the act of preserving unity or coherence within a physical or abstract entity. It emphasizes the necessity to prevent disintegration, conflicts, or breakdowns by connecting or coordinating the different components. Whether referring to something concrete or intangible, the concept of "holds together" underscores the value of collaboration, organization, and solidarity to maintain a functioning whole.
The phrase "holds together" does not have a specific etymology, as it is composed of two separate words that have their own origins.
The word "holds" is derived from the Old English word "healdan", which means to grasp or keep. It is related to the Old Norse word "halda" and the German word "halten", both of which have similar meanings.
The word "together" has its origins in the Old English word "tōgædere", which means in a gathering or in a body. It is a combination of the word "to" (indicating a unification) and "gædere" (meaning together).
When combined, "holds together" refers to the act of maintaining unity, coherence, or stability.