Definition & Meaning of "Hold the fort"

hold the fort

/hˈəʊld ðə fˈɔːt/

/hˈoʊld ðə fˈɔːɹt/

to hold the fort

PHRASE

to assume full control or responsibility of something until the actual person in charge returns, particularly in business

to [hold] the fort definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "hold the fort" and when to use it?

The idiom "hold the fort" comes from military terminology and has been in use since at least the 19th century. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is asked to maintain a situation or position in the absence of others.

Example

If we leave the store, who will hold the fort?

She is holding the fort until the new manager arrives.

He held the fort while his colleagues were on vacation.

I'll hold the fort while you go to lunch.

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