Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hold water

idiom

/hoʊld ˈwɔːtər/

Definition

to be sound or valid; to withstand scrutiny or criticism.

Examples

The theory proposed by the scientist did not hold water when tested against new data.
Her excuse for being late didn’t hold water with her boss.
While the proposal sounded good, it ultimately did not hold water in the eyes of the board.

Meaning

The phrase ‘hold water’ refers to an argument or idea that remains credible or reasonable under examination. If something holds water, it is convincing and can be supported with evidence.