abeyance

noun

ə-ˈbā-ən(t)s How to pronounce abeyance (audio)
Definition of abeyancenext
as in suspension
a state of temporary inactivity our weekend plans were held in abeyance until we could get a weather forecast

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of abeyance Taylor pleaded guilty in abeyance to assault and the other charges were dropped. — Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 4 June 2026 Cogan’s melodies often hang in abeyance and rarely fully resolve. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 16 Mar. 2026 The jail term was held in abeyance, pending a review hearing in 60 days, according to court records. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026 The ethics inquiry board deliberated on the motion to dismiss and held the motion in abeyance pending the complainant’s witnesses testifying. — Mary Divine, Twin Cities, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for abeyance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for abeyance
  1. suspension
  2. suspense
Noun
  • The dropping/suspension was the beginning of the end, or at least the most public manifestation of the beginning of the end.
    — Nick Miller, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Bonnell appears to be treating software as another part of the motorcycle's suspension system and something that can be adjusted to suit the rider’s preferences, skill, and terrain.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of suspension
Noun
  • The fact that the show couldn’t manage even a modicum of suspense with the same material shows how utterly sauceless this adaptation is.
    — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2026
  • Jennifer McMahon is the best-selling author of 12 suspense novels, including The Winter People and Promise Not to Tell.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of suspense

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abeyance
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Cite this Entry

“Abeyance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abeyance. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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