hold water

Cultural  

1. To seem logical and consistent: “At first I was persuaded by the politician's speech, but upon reflection, I decided her arguments didn't hold water.”

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hold water Idioms  

1. Stand up to critical examination, be sound and valid, as in This argument just won't hold water, or Her reasons for quitting don't hold water. This metaphoric expression alludes to a container that can hold water without leaking. [c. 1600]

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Example Sentences

The coxswain's command, if he wants to turn sharp to the left or port, is "Hold water port, give way strong starboard."

From Reminiscences of Two Years in the United States Navy by Batten, John M. (John Mullin)

Hold water, starboard oars, and port oars pull a stroke; we’re pointing straight for the Frenchmen just now.

From The Congo Rovers A Story of the Slave Squadron by Schonberg, J.

If he wishes to turn sharp to the right or starboard, his command would be, "Hold water starboard, give way strong port."

From Reminiscences of Two Years in the United States Navy by Batten, John M. (John Mullin)

Hold water all! we will go alongside the ship first, and see what is the state of things there.

From A Middy of the King A Romance of the Old British Navy by Hodgson, Edward S.

"Hold water, men--the boat is steady--let them have it."

From Homeward Bound or, the Chase by Cooper, James Fenimore

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