holdfast

[ hohld-fast, -fahst ]

/ ˈhoʊldˌfæst, -ˌfɑst /

something used to hold or secure a thing in place; a catch, hook, clamp, etc.

Botany, Mycology. any of several rootlike or suckerlike organs or parts serving for attachment.

Origin of holdfast

First recorded in 1550–60; noun use of verb phrase hold fast

"Shipwrecked sailors and passengers of the ship Nantucket," was the answer of Mr. Holdfast.

Facing the World |Horatio Alger
What do you think has become of Captain Hill and his companions, Mr. Holdfast?

Facing the World |Horatio Alger
They are not centred alone on Mr. Pelham; Mrs. Holdfast intrudes herself in a way that makes me shudder.

Great Porter Square, v. 3 |Benjamin Leopold Farjeon
She slipped between his arms, and again stood by the side of Mrs. Holdfast.

Great Porter Square, v. 3 |Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

Armed with the address, Fanny went to Mrs. Holdfast, according to appointment.

Great Porter Square, v. 3 |Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

holdfast

/ (ˈhəʊldˌfɑːst) /

any device used to secure an object, such as a hook, clamp, etc

the organ of attachment of a seaweed or related plant