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to hold the fort
01
to assume full control or responsibility of something until the actual person in charge returns, particularly in business
Dialect
![to [hold] the fort definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/41636/original/?type=jpeg "to [hold] the fort definition and meaning")
IdiomWhat 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.
Examples
He held the fort while his colleagues were on vacation.
I'll hold the fort while you go to lunch.
