expression, ichidan verb
keep under control; hold in check; restrain
Used for controlling or restraining someone or something, often in a figurative sense of keeping a situation or person from getting out of hand. Can imply a firm, sometimes physical, grip on a situation.
彼は怒りを頭を押さえて冷静に対応した。
He kept his anger in check and responded calmly.
The boss persuaded his subordinate, as if to hold his opposition in check.