Definition of the word hold back

The origin of the word "hold back" can be traced back to the Old English language, where it was spelled "holdbaccan." This term initially referred to the act of withholding or restraining something or someone from proceeding forward, particularly in a military context. In Battle of Maldon, an Old English poem from the 10th century, we see a clear example of the usage of "holdbaccan." The poem describes a fight between the Anglo-Saxons and the Viking invaders. The leader of the Saxons, Byrhtnoth, instructs his troops, "Hold you the wall, and pray to God in your hearts!" which translates to "Restrain yourselves at the wall, and pray to God in your hearts!" Here, "hold back" or "hold" implies the action of defending and restraining oneself to prevent the enemy from advancing. In this sense, "hold back" has a connotation of stopping or restraining something or someone. Over time, "hold back" has shifted to have a broader meaning encompassing non-military contexts as well. Today, "hold back" can refer to a variety of things, from restraining one's emotions or opinions to delaying a course of action or holding back information. Yet the military connotation still persists, with "hold back the enemy" remaining an expression commonly used in modern warfare.