at bay

== English == === Etymology === From bay (“excited howling of dogs”). === Pronunciation === === Prepositional phrase === at bay (set phrase, idiomatic) Unable to come closer; at a distance. (set phrase, idiomatic) Cornered; unable to flee. (heraldry) Of an animal, especially a docile animal in contrast to a predatory animal which would be blazoned statant: standing, in profile toward dexter, with all four feet on the ground. (If gazing at the viewer, the animal is at gaze.) ==== Usage notes ==== Usually modifying the verb "keep" - "she kept that angry customer at bay" ==== Synonyms ==== (at a distance): at a distance, at arm's length, away, back (cornered): cornered, trapped ==== Translations ====