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
There wasn’t much suspense on the top pick this year, but the moment was still memorable based on Schaefer’s tears, as the top pick and his family shared the moment while honoring his mom, Jennifer, who passed away in 2024.
—
Sean McIndoe, New York Times, 28 June 2025
After several weeks of voting, the suspense is over and the new name for the snake will be announced.
—Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 June 2025
In true suspenseful fashion, the story ended with suspense.
—Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2025
That the gaping hole is really just a matte painting — a special effect — doesn't lessen the suspense or the comedy.
—Tom Gliatto, People.com, 26 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for suspense
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Sean McIndoe, New York Times, 28 June 2025
After several weeks of voting, the suspense is over and the new name for the snake will be announced.
—Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 June 2025
In true suspenseful fashion, the story ended with suspense.
—Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2025
That the gaping hole is really just a matte painting — a special effect — doesn't lessen the suspense or the comedy.
—Tom Gliatto, People.com, 26 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for suspense
Cite this Entry
“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.
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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