1. people who refuse to agree to something or give in to pressure
Usage: plural form
2. people who remain in a place when others have left
Usage: plural form

Examples

• The union contract was delayed by a few holdouts who refused to sign.
• Most residents evacuated, but there were still holdouts in the flood zone.
• The company offered bonuses to convince the holdouts to accept the merger.
• Several holdouts remained in the old neighborhood despite redevelopment.
• The peace negotiations stalled because of holdouts on both sides.
• Emergency workers tried to persuade the holdouts to leave the dangerous area.