Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hold one's nose
idiom
/hoʊld wʌnz noʊz/
Definition
To pinch or clasp one’s nose shut, often to avoid unpleasant smells.
Examples
- When the skunk sprayed, everyone had to hold their noses to get through the area.
- Sometimes you have to hold your nose and vote for the candidate you dislike the least.
- She held her nose while cleaning out the refrigerator.
Meaning
The phrase ‘hold one’s nose’ can be used literally to describe the act of physically covering one’s nose. It is also used figuratively to indicate tolerating or enduring something unpleasant or distasteful.
Synonyms
- Endure
- Tolerate
- Grin and bear it
