Synonyms of holding pattern

holding pattern

noun

1

as in suspension

a state of temporary inactivity

repair work on the bridge was in a holding pattern for the duration of the winter

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

2

as in delay

an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business

the couple has been trapped in this holding pattern for six months, as adoption officials create more red tape

Synonyms & Similar Words

• delay
• wait
• holdup
• detention
• deferral
• postponement
• deferment
• setback
• pause
• holdback
• detainment
• lag
• hesitation
• respite
• slowdown
• reprieve
• foot-dragging

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• rush
• haste
• dispatch
• promptness
• promptitude

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of holding pattern

The central bank has been in a holding pattern this year after lowering benchmark rates by three-quarters of a percentage point during the latter part of 2025. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 5 June 2026

Many businesses in his industry have been in a holding pattern for much of the past 18 months. — Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 27 May 2026

Any third-round holding pattern couldn’t drag on too far, though. — Luca Evans, Denver Post, 20 May 2026

Depending on your perspective, Tesla appears to be either in a holding pattern or slight decline, with slowing sales growth and withering fundamentals. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 19 May 2026