Hold

nounStandard termMaritime

The main interior cargo storage space within a vessel's hull.

The large, enclosed compartment below the main deck designed for carrying bulk cargo, containers, or general freight. Holds are divided by bulkheads to maintain structural stability and prevent cargo shifting. They are accessed through large deck hatches and are equipped with drainage and ventilation systems to protect the goods in transit.

Heard on the job

The stevedores are loading the last of the grain into number three hold.

Also heard as

  • cargo hold