Synonyms of abeyance

abeyance

noun

ə-ˈbā-ən(t)s 

as in suspension

a state of temporary inactivity

our weekend plans were held in abeyance until we could get a weather forecast

Synonyms & Similar Words

• suspension
• suspense
• moratorium
• coma
• quiescence
• dormancy
• cold storage
• recession
• latency
• inertia
• doldrums
• suspended animation
• inaction
• deep freeze
• standstill
• inertness
• recess
• slumber
• motionlessness
• holding pattern
• impasse
• rest
• hibernation
• remission
• hypnosis
• torpor
• sleep
• repose
• layoff
• idleness
• downtime

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• continuation
• continuance
• renewal
• resumption
• resuscitation
• recommencement

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of abeyance

Maybe something like an abeyance. — Lauren Michele Jackson, New Yorker, 11 June 2026

The worry for Ukrainians is that the Iran war, which has been in abeyance for weeks, may now reignite after Iran launched missiles on Sunday at Israel in the first such bombardment since a fragile ceasefire took effect in early April, complicating mediation efforts for a deal to end the war. — Pan Pylas, Chicago Tribune, 7 June 2026

Taylor pleaded guilty in abeyance to assault and the other charges were dropped. — Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 4 June 2026

Cogan’s melodies often hang in abeyance and rarely fully resolve. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 16 Mar. 2026

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