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
In February, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine will begin, forcing Loktev’s journalist-subjects, who have already been stigmatized by the government for doing their jobs, to flee the country altogether—a crisis that registers onscreen with an almost unbearable suspense.
—
Justin Chang, New Yorker, 5 Dec. 2025
After months of anticipation, a fan favorite for locals and Nashville SC players, in particular, is ending the suspense.
—Gabrielle Chenault, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Dec. 2025
We are immediately placed in a tangible, tactile world, which is key to building any kind of suspense.
—Alison Willmore, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025
The cast didn't learn about the multiple endings until filming was close to wrapping, creating suspense among the actors themselves.
—Shannon Luibrand, CBS News, 25 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for suspense
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Justin Chang, New Yorker, 5 Dec. 2025
After months of anticipation, a fan favorite for locals and Nashville SC players, in particular, is ending the suspense.
—Gabrielle Chenault, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Dec. 2025
We are immediately placed in a tangible, tactile world, which is key to building any kind of suspense.
—Alison Willmore, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025
The cast didn't learn about the multiple endings until filming was close to wrapping, creating suspense among the actors themselves.
—Shannon Luibrand, CBS News, 25 Nov. 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 12 Dec. 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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