withhold

/with-ˈhōld/

Middle English, from with from + holden to hold

verb

  1. to hold back from action : check

  2. to keep in custody

  3. to refrain from granting, giving, or allowing

keep retain detain withhold reserve mean to hold in one's possession or under one's control. keep may suggest a holding securely in one's possession, custody, or control. retain implies continued keeping, especially against threatened seizure or forced loss.