Definition
To hold something, or to keep a promise or commitment. It can also mean to fit or stay in place.
Example
Elle tient la main de son enfant dans la rue.
Show translation
She holds her child's hand in the street.
Etymology
From Latin *tenēre* ("to hold, keep"), which also gave English "tenacious," "tenant," and "contain." The verb entered Old French as *tenir* and has remained one of the most common and versatile verbs in the language ever since.
Cultural note
*Tenir* is extraordinarily productive in French idioms. *Tenir à* means "to care about" (e.g., *je tiens à toi* — "I care about you / you matter to me"), while *tenir parole* means "to keep one's word." The imperative *Tiens !* (singular) or *Tenez !* (formal/plural) is used as an everyday interjection meaning "Here you go!" or "Well, look at that!" — you'll hear it constantly in daily conversation. Don't confuse *tenir* with the Italian *tenere* (same meaning) or the Spanish *tener*, which is also its cognate.