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

Stop watering regularly once a lawn enters winter dormancy, based on grass type, soil temperature, and local weather. — Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 22 Oct. 2026

Focus on branches that are likely to cause damage to your roof, then do more significant pruning in early spring when the tree is about to emerge from dormancy. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 14 Oct. 2026

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

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