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

Then, the fertilizer that’s applied after the peonies have bloomed for the season helps the plants get ready for a season of winter dormancy and prepare for the next spring. — Heather Bien, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2026

Move them to an unheated garage or shed, which will allow the plants to enter a dormancy stage. — Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

While your lawn has likely slowed or stopped growing by August, this is not the same as the long period of dormancy that your lawn experiences during fall and winter. — Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 2 Aug. 2026

After years of dormancy, Hollywood’s Cinerama Dome is officially getting a new owner. — Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 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