student asking question

What does "hold one's peace" mean?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Great question. "Hold your peace" is a common idiom. It has the same meaning as another idiom, "hold your tongue" and means to keep silent or to not say anything about something. It is commonly heard in traditional marriage vows. The usual phrase in the wedding ceremony is "Should anyone here present know of any reason that this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace." This line is old-fashioned and not used very often anymore, but is heard in old movies depicting wedding ceremonies, which is the case here. Ex: You must hold your peace and accept the changes. Ex: The waiter was discreet and held his peace.

Popular Q&As

04/19

Complete the expression with a quiz!