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
Relevance
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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holding patterns
Noun
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However, waves of firings and suspensions have occurred across the country in connection to individuals’ social media posts about Kirk, as conservative politicians and influencers push for a crackdown on negative posts about the political podcaster.—
Angele Latham,
Nashville Tennessean,
23 Sep. 2025 -
Taiwan authorities issued a land and sea warning, announced suspensions of some ferry services and closures of nature trails in southern and eastern counties – ahead of heavy rain and flooding.—
Helen Regan,
CNN Money,
22 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Seeking a faster, more affordable option, researchers at Sungkyunkwan University in Korea are developing a technique that can create patient-specific bone implants without the high costs or delays of traditional methods.—
Bojan Stojkovski,
Interesting Engineering,
27 Sep. 2025
-
Weather delays are common, and trip cancellations aren’t out of the ordinary.—
Lydia Mansel,
Travel + Leisure,
27 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Highlights Ultimate Puzzle Challenge Screen-free entertainment saves the day during long waits, flight delays, or times when devices need charging.—
Gabriela Garcia,
Travel + Leisure,
26 Sep. 2025
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Turner said the responses for Idaho 55 accidents take up the bulk of local emergency resources, leading to waits for Boise County residents.—
Sally Krutzig,
Idaho Statesman,
26 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Holding patterns.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holding%20patterns. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.
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