hold (something) over (one's) head

hold (something) over (one's) head

To continually remind one of one's past mistakes, wrongdoings, or failures. Greg is such jerk—I just know he'll keep holding it over my head if I don't land a sale soon. You need to forgive and forget and stop holding the things she said in anger over her head. She never meant to hurt you—you know that. It was an honest mistake—how long do you plan to hold it over my head?

See also: head, hold, over

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