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
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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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 plan also aims to boost a culturally responsive curriculum, including lessons on Black history and culture, and reduce out-of-school suspensions and expulsions for Black students by 40%.—
Kate Armanini,
Chicago Tribune,
14 Mar. 2026
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While long suspensions for kneeing are less common than for other plays in the NHL, there is precedent for players missing considerable time in these situations, especially when involving repeat offenders.—
James Mirtle,
New York Times,
13 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The two sides are meeting for a fifth consecutive day Saturday in hopes of getting a CBA finished in a timely fashion to avoid any potential delays to the upcoming WNBA season.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
15 Mar. 2026
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Travelers should expect long delays.—
Zach LaChance,
The Washington Examiner,
15 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The four-week shutdown has crippled airport security, with waits exceeding three hours at some airports as screeners work without pay amid spring break travel.—
Kevin Freking,
Los Angeles Times,
12 Mar. 2026
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Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport said Monday TSA waits can extend up to two hours and advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before their flight.—
Alexandra Skores,
CNN Money,
10 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Holding patterns.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holding%20patterns. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.
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