dormancy

noun

dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən(t)-sē 

: the quality or state of being dormant

Synonyms of dormancy

• suspension
• suspense

Examples of dormancy in a Sentence

some volcanoes have eruptive cycles marked by long stretches of dormancy

a fighting force that could be roused instantly from dormancy to action

Recent Examples on the Web

Her investigative reporting on the Jeffrey Epstein case in 2018 broke the story open after a decade of dormancy. — Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 22 Sep. 2026

Overall, top candidates for bare-root planting include deciduous fruit trees, roses, berry bushes, and hardy perennials, as these plants handle winter dormancy exceptionally well. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Sep. 2026

After this first infection, the virus enters a state of dormancy within pain-sensing neurons. — Andrew Bubak, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026

Fertilizing too late can disrupt dormancy and increase risks of disease or frost damage. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 13 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dormancy

noun

dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən-sē 

: the quality or state of being dormant