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
The mesh upper offers superior breathability, but its unique liquid-repellent technology keeps liquids and germs at bay.
—
Lindsay Modglin, Verywell Health, 16 May 2024
They're stuffed with a soft down-alternative filling and designed with a breathable cover to keep night sweats at bay.
—Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for at bay 
Lindsay Modglin, Verywell Health, 16 May 2024
They're stuffed with a soft down-alternative filling and designed with a breathable cover to keep night sweats at bay.
—Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for at bay
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'at bay.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near at bay
Cite this Entry
“At bay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20bay. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
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