withhold

 
Pronunciation: /wɪðˈhəʊld/

verb (past and past participle withheld /-ˈhɛld/)

[with object]
  • refuse to give (something that is due to or is desired by another): the name of the dead man is being withheld (as noun withholding) the withholding of consent to treatment
  • suppress or hold back (an emotion or reaction): Elizabeth could no longer withhold her sentiments her mouth clenched as if withholding a cry

Derivatives

withholder

noun

Origin:

Middle English: from the prefix with- 'away' + the verb hold1

Spelling help

Remember that withhold is spelled with a double h (it is made up of the words with and hold)