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

Ariane 6 has made a difference for Europe, but for the rest of the commercial launch industry, a holding pattern remains as Falcon 9 backstops all. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 17 Aug. 2026

Perhaps the Switch 2 is Nintendo’s holding pattern amidst an industry in peril. — Mitch Wallace, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

A bit like a holding pattern is used for aircraft waiting to land at an overly busy airport. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 26 July 2026

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