suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s 
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement as to a decision or outcome
a novel of suspense
3
: the state or character of being undecided or doubtful : indecisiveness
Examples of suspense in a Sentence
I can't bear the suspense.
The suspense builds as the story progresses.
Alfred Hitchcock was a master of suspense.
The movie is a suspense thriller.
Recent Examples on the Web
This engrossing and thoroughly original thriller combines racing suspense with a moving story about the need for human connection.
—
Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 12 Apr. 2026
To some umps’ great dismay—and fans’ utter delight—calls are indeed getting overturned, with all the suspense of a Roman emperor deciding on a gladiator’s fate.
—Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 8 Apr. 2026
At the half, the Wolverines had established a 48-32 lead over the Wildcats, and, thanks in part to a 26-12 advantage in points off turnovers, Michigan would propel itself to the title game with a suspense-free 91-73 win.
—Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 6 Apr. 2026
As Sunday’s game ended without any suspense given UCLA’s lead, the seniors on the team took a final emotional bow on the court.
—Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 5 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for suspense
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Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 12 Apr. 2026
To some umps’ great dismay—and fans’ utter delight—calls are indeed getting overturned, with all the suspense of a Roman emperor deciding on a gladiator’s fate.
—Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 8 Apr. 2026
At the half, the Wolverines had established a 48-32 lead over the Wildcats, and, thanks in part to a 26-12 advantage in points off turnovers, Michigan would propel itself to the title game with a suspense-free 91-73 win.
—Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 6 Apr. 2026
As Sunday’s game ended without any suspense given UCLA’s lead, the seniors on the team took a final emotional bow on the court.
—Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 5 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for suspense
Cite this Entry
“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement caused by wondering what will happen
a novel of suspense
3
: the state of being undecided
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