support and prevent something from falling

concrete pillars hold up the elevated section of the railway

display something by holding it above one's waist or head

he held up the book so she could see the cover

delay or block the movement or progress of someone or something

our return flight was held up for seven hours

rob someone or something using threats or violence

a masked gunman held up the post office

remain strong or vigorous

the Labour vote held up well

wait; stop

Hold up! I'm coming too!

refrain from playing a winning card for tactical reasons

South held up the Ace until the third round of the suit