To withhold means to hold something back or refuse to give it, even when someone expects or needs it. When you withhold information, you keep it to yourself instead of sharing it. A parent might withhold dessert until homework is finished, or a friend might withhold the ending of a movie to avoid spoiling it.

The word suggests a deliberate choice not to give something. It's different from simply forgetting or not having something to give. When a teacher withholds praise even though a student did well, they're choosing not to offer encouragement they could have given. When someone withholds the truth, they know it but won't say it.

Withholding can be neutral, protective, or harmful depending on the situation. A judge might withhold judgment until hearing all the evidence, which shows wisdom. But withholding affection or kindness from someone who needs it can hurt them. When employers withhold part of your paycheck for taxes, they're setting aside money the government requires before you even receive it.

Notice how withholding creates a gap between what exists and what gets shared.