Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hold court

idiom
/hoʊld kɔrt/
Definition
To conduct a meeting or gathering, often used in the context of a person being in a position of authority or influence.
Examples
  • During the party, she liked to hold court in the living room, sharing stories and cracking jokes.
  • The famous author would often hold court at literary events, captivating the audience with her wit.
  • At the café, he would hold court with his friends, discussing everything from politics to sports.
Meaning
The phrase means to engage with others, often in an entertaining or charismatic manner, as if to preside over a group or event.
Synonyms
  • command attention
  • be the center of attention
  • captivate an audience