Not held for nothing
I believe the answer is:
free
'for nothing' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for free that I've seen before include "Not occupied; release" , "Release - without charge" , "Costing nothing" , "Unencumbered" , "Not under restraint" .)