at bay adv. or
adj. phr. In a place where you can no longer run away; unable to go back farther; forced to stand and fight, or face an enemy; cornered.
The dog ran the rat into a corner, and there the rat turned at bay.
The police chased the thief to a roof, where they held him at bay until more policemen came to help. Compare: BRING TO BAY.
[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲