withhold
verb (used with object)
to hold back; restrain or check.
have withheld
-
present perfectof withhold.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Police leaders were subsequently found to have spread false narratives, blaming Liverpool fans, and to have withheld evidence of their own failings.
From BBC ● Mar. 20, 2026
The BBC said in a statement that an unnamed journalist "has been unable to leave Vietnam for several months as the authorities have withheld their ID card and their renewed passport".
From Barron's ● Oct. 29, 2025
But American officials have withheld many details of their work trying to free the hostages, citing security concerns, Chen said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2023
Both the office of state Attorney General Jason Miyares — which said it had about 150 pages of records — and the department have withheld documents in their custody.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 9, 2023
I am taken with how beautiful she is and feel shame that I have withheld a treasured word for so long.
From "The Adoration of Jenna Fox" by Mary E. Pearson
