at bay
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.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms