HOLDING definition: the act of a person or thing that holds. See examples of holding used in a sentence. The meaning of HOLDING is land held especially by a vassal or tenant. How to use holding in a sentence. The comprehensive definition of holding. Includes pronunciation, synonyms, etymology, and usage examples to help you master this word. 1. Tending to impede or delay progress: a holding action. 2. Designed for usually short-term storage or retention: a holding tank; a holding cell. the act of holding back or keeping within your possession or control preservation and methodical arrangement as of documents and papers etc. HOLDING definition: 1. something that you own such as shares in a company or buildings, or land that you rent and farm…. Learn more. A holding is an area of farm land which is owned or rented by the person who grows crops on it.