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

New growth sprouts at ground level when plants break dormancy in spring. — Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 9 Sep. 2026

June-bearing strawberries produce a large crop of berries in early summer and then enter a state of dormancy and stop fruiting entirely. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Sep. 2026

To do so, take the bulbs out of dormancy six weeks ahead of their bloom time and plant them in containers. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 1 Sep. 2026

The administration has resumed strikes after months of dormancy. — Laura Romero, ABC News, 31 Aug. 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