In basketball, soccer, and similar sports, a foul for illegally holding an opponent.
I was called for a holding foul in basketball.
In volleyball, a foul for prolonged contact with the ball, also called a 'carry' or 'lift'.
Be careful not to be called for carrying in volleyball.
holding pattern
In aviation, a flight path flown while waiting for clearance to land.
Due to bad weather, the plane entered a holding pattern.