1. raise, lift to a higher than normal position.
The winner of the game held his trophy up for all to see.
2. delay
My flight will be held up, so I will be late.
I’m sorry, I’m late. There was an accident on the road and traffic held me up.
I am held up in traffic. [delayed]
* The meeting was put off for another week.
3. rob
I am being held up, Help!. [robbed]
Elizabeth is very upset. When she was walking home last night, two men held her up and took her purse.