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

The island can downshift into a period of dormancy for a short while, before ramping up again to deal with the eight bells that sound in the finale’s closing scene. — Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 17 June 2026

Winter months are discouraged as lemon trees are typically in a state of dormancy and should be left undisturbed. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 June 2026

If aesthetics are important to you, Klopfer says that utilizing a mix of warm and cool-season grasses is a good option because their dormancy periods can balance each other out. — Cori Sears, The Spruce, 14 June 2026

For example, cool-season grasses can go into dormancy during the summertime due to extremes in drought and/or high temperatures. — Molly Burford, Southern Living, 11 June 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