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Region: General | Usage example: Can you hold the fort while I’m on leave?

Hold the fort

Meaning

Maintain a position temporarily.

Usage

Asked when covering responsibilities.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Military command for guarding fortifications.

Used in both military and civilian speech.

Related Idioms

Hold down the fort

Take care of responsibilities while someone else is away.

Hold the line

Maintain a position or standard.

Hold your own

Maintain one's position or perform equally with others.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.