Hold"fast` (?), n.

1.

Something used to secure and hold in place something else, as a long fiat-headed nail, a catch a hook, a clinch, a clamp, etc.; hence, a support.

"His holdfast was gone."

Bp. Montagu.

2. Bot.

A conical or branching body, by which a seaweed is attached to its support, and differing from a root in that it is not specially absorbent of moisture.

 

© Webster 1913.