WITHHOLDEN Meaning and
Definition
-
Withholden is the past participle of the verb withhold. The term "withhold" encompasses the act of refraining, retaining, or stopping oneself from giving or sharing something. It implies the deliberate act of keeping or concealing something that is usually expected or owed to someone else.
When used in the past tense with "withholden," it indicates that something has been kept back or refused. It signifies a situation where someone or something is inhibited from receiving or experiencing something that they should rightfully have or be entitled to.
The term "withholden" often pertains to the act of withholding money, information, permission, or assistance. For instance, an employer may withhold an employee's wages due to a dispute. Similarly, a government body might withhold certain information from the public due to security concerns. Individuals might also choose to withhold their emotions or withhold forgiveness as a personal choice.
In essence, "withholden" highlights the notion of intentional restraint or denial, indicating the action of preventing or declining to provide something that typically would be granted or shared. It emphasizes the deliberate action of holding back and the resulting absence or deprivation that occurs as a consequence.
-
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WITHHOLDEN
Etymology of WITHHOLDEN
The word "withholden" is the past participle of the verb "withhold". Its etymology can be traced back to Old English, where it originated as the verb "wealdan", meaning "to rule or wield power over". Over time, this verb evolved into "withholdan", which signified "to hold back, keep back, or restrain". In Middle English, the form "witholden" emerged, with "-en" being added to denote the past participle. Eventually, this form transitioned into the modern spelling "withholden", which is still in use today.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
