1
as in suspensions
a state of temporary inactivity
repair work on the bridge was in a holding pattern for the duration of the winter
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in delays
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
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of holding patterns
So should investors expect these trades to build up momentum again, or are these holding patterns set to continue?
—
Davis Giangiulio,
CNBC,
8 Mar. 2026
Some of the most common causes for the delays were the gate not being ready, taxiway congestion, holding patterns, runway queues, crew or equipment delay and weather restrictions.
—
Marina Watts,
PEOPLE,
22 Dec. 2025
Inbound flights that had been placed in holding patterns were cleared to land, and no cancellations were reported.
—
Amanda Castro,
MSNBC Newsweek,
26 Nov. 2025
Davis Giangiulio,
CNBC,
8 Mar. 2026
Some of the most common causes for the delays were the gate not being ready, taxiway congestion, holding patterns, runway queues, crew or equipment delay and weather restrictions.
—
Marina Watts,
PEOPLE,
22 Dec. 2025
Inbound flights that had been placed in holding patterns were cleared to land, and no cancellations were reported.
—
Amanda Castro,
MSNBC Newsweek,
26 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holding patterns
Noun
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The report, released Tuesday, says the jury found that students with disabilities in the district face high rates of absenteeism and suspensions.
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Despite taking cost-saving actions, including a selective hiring freeze for non-uniformed positions, overtime restrictions, spending reductions, and travel suspensions, General Fund expenses still outpace revenue.
Noun
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Earlier, near the Simon Bolivar International Airport — an area also heavily impacted by the quakes — residents complained of delays in resuming rescue operations.
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Be punctual for shore excursions and activities to avoid delays or missing out without a refund.
Noun
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Powell said China has such operations lined up and planned well in advance and waits for such triggering events.
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At its core, Megawheels believes that children should not be stuck on the sidelines while the outdoors waits.
Cite this Entry
“Holding patterns.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holding%20patterns. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.
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