Meaning & Definition of word "Holdup"
to
Holdup
ˈhoʊlˌdʌp
noun:
- 1. A delay or obstruction.
- Example: There was a holdup in traffic due to an accident on the highway.
- 2. A robbery, especially one involving the use of force or threats.
- Example: The bank experienced a holdup, and the robbers got away with a large sum of money.
verb:
- 1. To delay or cause to be delayed.
- Example: Don't let a minor problem holdup your progress on the project.
Etymology
The term holdup stems from the combination of 'hold' and 'up', implying a stopping or hindrance.
Common Phrases and Expressions
holdup in traffic:
a delay experienced on the road due to congestion or an event
holdup at the bank:
a robbery that takes place at a financial institution
put on hold:
to delay an action or decision temporarily
Related Words
delay:
an interval of time between events
robbery:
the act of taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or threat
traffic jam:
a situation in which a large number of vehicles are unable to move or move very slowly
Slang Meanings of holdup
Meaning: to stop someone suddenly
Example Sentence: He holdup-ed me for my phone when I was walking home.
Meaning: to cause a delay
Example Sentence: Sorry I'm late, I got holdup-ed at the grocery store.