Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hold the fort

idiom
/hoʊld ðə fɔrt/
Definition
To maintain one’s position or continue to manage something in the absence of someone else.
Examples
  • While the manager was on vacation, Lisa had to hold the fort and ensure that everything went as planned.
  • Can you hold the fort for me while I take a quick break?
Meaning
The phrase ‘hold the fort’ is often used to describe the act of keeping things running smoothly while someone is away, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and reliability.
Synonyms
  • keep things running
  • manage in someone’s absence
  • maintain operations
  • take charge