holdfast

holdfast [hohld-fast, -fahst] ExamplesWord Origin noun

1. something used to hold or secure a thing in place; a catch, hook, clamp, etc.
2. Botany, Mycology. any of several rootlike or suckerlike organs or parts serving for attachment.

Origin of holdfast First recorded in 1550–60; noun use of verb phrase hold fast Examples from the Web for holdfast Historical Examples of holdfast

He then began to wander, and Holdfast’s question remained unanswered.

Put Yourself in His Place

Charles Reade

Oh, no,” was the reply; “Mr. Holdfast had not yet come back.

Great Porter Square, v. 2

Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

Small wonder that Mr. Holdfast was captivated by them and by her beauty!

Great Porter Square, v. 1

Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

But even this money,” said Mr. Holdfast to her, “would not last for ever.

Great Porter Square, v. 1

Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

Mr. Holdfast was touched to his inmost soul by the pathos of this situation.

Great Porter Square, v. 1

Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

British Dictionary definitions for holdfast holdfast noun

1. 1. the act of gripping strongly
   2. such a grip
2. any device used to secure an object, such as a hook, clamp, etc
3. the organ of attachment of a seaweed or related plant