hold on

hold on  {v.}
1. To keep holding tightly; continue to hold strongly.
As Ted was pulling on the rope, it began to slip and Earl cried, "Hold on, Ted!"
Syn.: HANG ON.
2. To wait and not hang up a telephone; keep a phone for later use.
Mr. Jones asked me to hold on while he spoke to his secretary.
3. To keep on with a business or job in spite of difficulties.
It was hard to keep the store going during the depression, but Max held on and at last met with success.
4.  {informal}
To wait a minute; stop. — Usually used as a command.
"Hold on!" John's father said, "I want the car tonight."
Categories: {informal} {v.}