holdfast

noun

1. Something to or by which an object can be securely fastened.

   “And Ivy divided from the root, we have observed to live some years, by the cirrous parts commonly conceived but as tentacles and holdfasts unto it.”

2. A root-like structure that anchors aquatic sessile organisms, such as seaweed, other sessile algae, stalked crinoids, benthic cnidarians, and sponges, to the substrate.
3. (archaic)Actinomycosis.
4. The aspect of a character that experiences destructive temptation.

   “Alienation: A stage on the downside of the passage wherein the holdfast and the antihero take actions which bring about a disintegration of personality.”

name

1. A hamlet and civil parish (served by Longdon, Queenhill and Holdfast Parish Council) in Malvern Hills district, Worcestershire, England (OS grid ref SO853378).