hold (one's) hand
1. Literally, to grasp one's hand and continue holding it, typically while walking together or sitting next to each other, often as a show of affection. I think it's so sweet how Jenny holds Tim's hand when they walk into school. Jimmy, you have to hold my hand when we cross the street! I held my husband's hand as we walked along the beach.
2. To comfort or support one when they are frightened, anxious, or distressed. I know you're worried about giving your speech, but I'll be there to hold your hand. Come on, I can't hold your hand all the time—you have to do this on your own! Thankfully, my boyfriend was there to hold my hand before I went back for my medical procedure.
3. To carefully guide one through something; to make something very easy for one. Thank you, but I can figure these problems out myself without you holding my hand. The video game is brutally difficult, and it doesn't hold the player's hand at any point. Mom, I know how to bake a cake. You don't need to hold my hand in the kitchen the whole time.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
hold someone's hand
1. Lit. to hold the hand of someone who is frightened, especially a child. Please hold Jimmy's hand when you cross the street.
2. Fig. to comfort someone who is anxious or frightened. You'll be all right, won't you? You don't need anyone to hold your hand, do you?
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.