1. "Hold on": This idiom likely originates from the physical act of holding onto something for support or stability. It might have emerged from situations like:
* Riding a horse: Holding on to the reins to stay balanced.
* Climbing: Holding onto a rope or branch for safety.
* Sailing: Holding onto the mast or rigging during rough seas.
2. "Hold your horses": This idiom emphasizes the need to slow down or wait, possibly stemming from the practice of holding back a horse that is eager to move.
3. "Hold your tongue": This idiom instructs someone to be quiet or refrain from speaking, likely originating from the physical act of holding one's tongue to prevent them from speaking.
4. "Hold out": This idiom can mean to resist or endure, suggesting an act of holding back against pressure or difficulty. This may be linked to holding onto a position, like in a battle or argument.
5. "Hold up": This idiom can mean to delay or impede, likely rooted in the act of physically stopping something from moving forward.
In Summary:
While it's difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of each "hold" idiom, many of them seem to draw on the literal action of holding something or someone. This act is often linked to stopping, restraining, or enduring, providing a foundation for the metaphorical meanings of these idioms.