keep/hold somebody/something in check

keep someone or something in check

 and hold someone or something in check

to keep someone or something under control; to restrain someone or something. Hang on to this rope to keep the dog in check. I was so angry I could hardly hold myself in check.

See also: check, keep

keep/hold somebody/something in ˈcheck

control somebody/something: The disease is kept in check with drugs. ♢ It was difficult to hold their enthusiasm in check.

See also: check, hold, keep, somebody, something