at bay
idiom
: 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
Regular inspection and the application of neem oil can be effective in keeping both pests and diseases at bay.
—
Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 9 Feb. 2026
AccuWeather meteorologist Kai Kerkow said the high-pressure system parked over California that has kept winter weather at bay appears likely to weaken.
—James Powel, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026
Jim Vondruska | Getty Images One major battle for American is at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, where United CEO Scott Kirby, whom American fired in 2016, has vowed to keep his old employer at bay.
—Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 7 Feb. 2026
The Tigers, more skilled, more physical, were able to keep their hosts at bay down the stretch.
—The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for at bay
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Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 9 Feb. 2026
AccuWeather meteorologist Kai Kerkow said the high-pressure system parked over California that has kept winter weather at bay appears likely to weaken.
—James Powel, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026
Jim Vondruska | Getty Images One major battle for American is at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, where United CEO Scott Kirby, whom American fired in 2016, has vowed to keep his old employer at bay.
—Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 7 Feb. 2026
The Tigers, more skilled, more physical, were able to keep their hosts at bay down the stretch.
—The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 7 Feb. 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 14 Feb. 2026.
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