Definitions
wait patiently
To remain in a seated position and not move around while waiting for something to happen. Can also imply staying in one place and not taking action until further instruction or information is given.stay calm
To remain composed and not get worked up or anxious in a stressful situation. Can also suggest staying in one's current position or situation without making any sudden movements or changes.
Examples of Sit tight
The roller coaster climbed higher and higher, and suddenly the track dropped steeply. The screams of the passengers filled the air as they plummeted downwards. The ride operator shouted, "Hold on tight! This is going to be a wild ride!"
The idiom "sit tight" is used here to mean "stay in place and hold on tightly". It's a way of telling people to brace themselves for something that's about to happen, and not to move around or let go of anything that's holding them in place. In this example, the ride operator is warning the passengers to prepare themselves for the sudden drop on the roller coaster.
Conclusion
The idiom "sit tight" is commonly used to advise someone to wait patiently and stay calm in a given situation. It can refer to physically remaining in a seated position or staying in one's current state without taking any action. Overall, it suggests a sense of patience and composure in the face of uncertainty or delay.Origin of "Sit tight"
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the military, specifically to the command given to soldiers to remain in their positions during a battle. It was used as a way to maintain order and avoid chaos during times of conflict. The phrase "sit tight" was also used in the context of hunting, instructing hunters to stay still and quiet while waiting for their prey.
Over time, the idiom became more commonly used in everyday language to mean waiting patiently or remaining calm in a given situation. It can also be seen as a variation of the phrase "keep your seat," which has a similar meaning of staying in one's position. The idiom has evolved to be used in various contexts, not just in military or hunting situations, and has become a widely recognized and understood phrase in the English language.