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

But the Heat, like all of the teams pursuing James, is essentially in a holding pattern on filling those needs. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 21 July 2026

And that again has created a holding pattern throughout the NBA, hardly the best of timing with the league’s 2026-27 signing period opening at noon Monday. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 July 2026

Shahidi said flights can normally divert or enter a holding pattern to avoid severe turbulence, but if it can't be seen in advance, there's no chance to prevent an encounter. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026

Since then, Fast & Furious has been stuck in a bit of a holding pattern as development on the eleventh installment — expected to be the last in the main series — has hit some speed bumps. — Katie Rife, Entertainment Weekly, 22 June 2026