hold (one's) ground

1. To brace oneself and maintain one's position during or when anticipating an attack. The other team's offense was incredibly aggressive, but our defense held their ground. Despite the guy's size, I managed to hold my ground during the fight. Men, the enemy is going to try to overwhelm us, but hold your ground!

2. To refuse to yield, compromise, or be belittled; to stand up against an attack or insult. The boss scoffed at her idea initially, but she held her ground and explained it in greater detail. He kept offering me less money, but I held my ground and got the full asking price. Thank goodness that group of senators held their ground and managed to get this vital healthcare bill passed!

hold/stand your ˈground

face a situation and refuse to run away: In spite of the enemy’s fierce attack, we stood our ground and eventually they had to retreat. ♢ After arguing about future policy for three hours, he was still standing his ground.