hold the floor

Related to word: hold

Idiom

Definition

  1. To speak at length to an audience, preventing others from contributing to the discussion.

    • During the meeting, he held the floor for half an hour, completely dominating the discussion.

    • As soon as she got the microphone, she started a long speech and held the floor, not giving anyone else a chance to speak.

    • Despite the time limit, the speaker held the floor, not allowing anyone to ask questions.