hold on

verb

1. To grasp or grip firmly.

   “Hold on tightly to the railing.”

2. To keep; to store something for someone.

   “Hold on to my umbrella while I ride the roller coaster.”

3. To retain an advantage.

   “I'm holding on to my trump cards until I really need them.”

4. Wait a short while.

   “Hold on while I get my coat.”

   “The departure was not unduly prolonged. In the road Mr. Love and the driver favoured the company with a brief chanty running. “Got it?—No, I ain't, 'old on,—Got it? Got it?—No, 'old on sir.””

5. To remain loyal.

   “He didn't give up his fandom when others did; he held on.”

6. To persist.

   “This trade held on for many years.”

   “That scare aside, Wolves had little trouble in holding on for their first league away win of the season and their first over the Reds since little-known striker Steve Mardenborough gave them a victory at Anfield in January 1984.”