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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holding patterns
Noun
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These unforeseen obstacles were in addition to the more standard challenges a team must surmount over the course of a season, like missing players to red card suspensions — but even then, Racing was forced to hold a tough hand.—
Tamerra Griffin,
New York Times,
3 Nov. 2025 -
Reactions to Kirk's death led to a flurry of social media comments either condemning the killing or celebrating it, leading to suspensions and firings of public employees around the country.—
Craig Shoup,
Nashville Tennessean,
30 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Major delays at airports across the country continue to persist due to staffing issues in air traffic controller towers and centers.—
Jon Haworth,
ABC News,
8 Nov. 2025
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After the modems were shut off in 2021, Forlini said, each community had to bring in the memory sticks in the tabulators to the county elections department for uploading, which brought delays in reporting unofficial results.—
Christina Hall,
Freep.com,
8 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Although crowding issues have improved since American Express restricted Centurion guest access, there are often still long waits.—
Lori Zaino,
CNBC,
31 Oct. 2025
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Walz’s office said that could lead to longer waits for reimbursements.—
Alex Derosier,
Twin Cities,
29 Oct. 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 9 Nov. 2025.
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