This is the 4107th most frequent German word.
abhalten
"Abhalten" means "to prevent, deter, or hold (an event)."
Here, 'abhalten' means 'to prevent or stop somebody or something from doing something.
Der Zaun soll Tiere davon abhalten, in den Garten zu kommen.
The fence is supposed to keep animals from entering the garden.
In this usage, 'abhalten' indicates 'to conduct' or 'to organize' an event, such as a meeting.
Wir werden morgen eine Besprechung abhalten.
We will hold a meeting tomorrow.
Here, 'abhalten' again means 'to prevent or hinder', emphasizing the disruptive influence leading to a change in plans.