1. devices or structures used to secure or attach something firmly in place
Usage: technical
2. root-like structures by which certain plants and algae attach themselves to surfaces
Usage: biology
3. metal brackets or clamps used to secure objects to walls or surfaces
Usage: construction

Examples

• The carpenter installed metal holdfasts to secure the workbench to the wall.
• Seaweed uses holdfasts to anchor itself to rocks on the ocean floor.
• The blacksmith’s holdfasts kept the iron bar steady while he hammered it.
• Marine biologists study how kelp holdfasts prevent the plants from being swept away by currents.
• Traditional woodworkers rely on wooden holdfasts to clamp their projects securely.
• The algae’s holdfasts allowed it to survive strong underwater currents.