Thesaurus results for HOLD WATER

hold water

phrase

Definition of hold water

as in fly

to withstand scrutiny and gain acceptance or approval a weak explanation that doesn't hold water

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hold water Given that Chuy García continued to serve out his term despite the health issues his wife is experiencing and his new responsibilities as guardian of his grandchild, the other explanation does not hold water. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2026 The Coast Guard said that the fuel in the Jaria Provider was also stored in ballast tanks, which are typically used to hold water or air to control the ship's buoyancy. — ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026 Those tanks normally hold water to help control ships’ stability and balance at sea. — Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026 Once a week, empty items that hold water such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, pet bowls, flowerpots and trash containers. — Susan Bromley, Freep.com, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hold water

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holdups

hold water

hold with

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“Hold water.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hold%20water. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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