houvast

See also: hou vast

Dutch

Etymology

From houd vast, the imperative of vasthouden (“to hold tight onto”). Compare English holdfast.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈɦɑu̯vɑst/

• Audio:

  (file)

Noun

houvast n or m (plural houvasten)

1. grip, grasp
2. something to hold onto (physically or emotionally), support, solace