withhold
/wɪθˈhoʊld/
verb
- To refuse to give or allow something that is expected or wanted.
- She could not withhold her laughter when she saw the puppy's silly trick.
- The company decided to withhold bonuses this year due to budget cuts.
- The witness was accused of withholding important information from the police.
- To keep back or hold back something from someone; to restrain.
- He tried to withhold his anger during the heated argument.
- The dam withholds the water of the river, creating a large reservoir.
- Parents sometimes withhold dessert as a consequence for bad behavior.