at bay
phrase
: in the position of being unable to move closer while attacking or trying to approach someone
—used with keep or hold
The soldiers kept the attackers at bay.
—often used figurativelyThe doctors have been able to keep her illness at bay for several months.
Examples of at bay in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Use a primer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep dry skin or flakiness at bay.
—
Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
3 July 2026
Don’t miss our favorite flatweave rug, as well as a handwoven utility basket with plenty of storage space to keep clutter at bay.
—
Caley Sturgill,
Southern Living,
3 July 2026
Mulch keeps weeds at bay, which can compete for water and nutrients your tree needs.
—
Martha Stewart,
2 July 2026
Despite a lack of clinical evidence, experts say there may be a reason the cocktail is helping some people keep persistent symptoms at bay.
—
Theara Coleman,
TheWeek,
1 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for at bay
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Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
3 July 2026
Don’t miss our favorite flatweave rug, as well as a handwoven utility basket with plenty of storage space to keep clutter at bay.
—
Caley Sturgill,
Southern Living,
3 July 2026
Mulch keeps weeds at bay, which can compete for water and nutrients your tree needs.
—
Martha Stewart,
2 July 2026
Despite a lack of clinical evidence, experts say there may be a reason the cocktail is helping some people keep persistent symptoms at bay.
—
Theara Coleman,
TheWeek,
1 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for at bay
Cite this Entry
“At bay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20bay. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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