Definition
In the context of DME (Distance Measuring Equipment), HOLD is a function that locks the DME receiver onto the frequency of a previously tuned station so that distance information continues to be displayed even after the pilot tunes the primary navigation radio to a different VOR or facility.
Plain English
A switch on the DME that tells it to keep showing the distance from the station you were just tuned to, even though you've now changed your main radio to a new station.
Context Anchor
Seen as a button, switch, or annunciation on some DME and navigation radio units.
Derivation
From the everyday sense of 'hold' meaning to keep or retain something in place. Here it means the DME holds onto the old station's distance signal instead of switching when you retune.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents loss of distance information during momentary signal fades, reducing pilot workload and maintaining continuous situational awareness on approaches or in holding patterns.
Intuition Check
HOLD does not mean a holding pattern here. It means the DME is keeping its selected distance source.
Example Sentence 1
She selected DME HOLD on the station behind her so she could keep distance information from it while tuning the ILS frequency for the approach ahead.
Example Sentence 2
The HOLD mode allowed the crew to keep using the last DME reading while they flew through a brief area of signal blockage.