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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At the time, Netflix stated that the suspensions were unrelated to the remarks, and eventually reinstated the employees.—
EW.com,
EW.com,
27 Aug. 2025 -
Countries like India, Thailand, South Korea, and New Zealand have already announced service suspensions until further notice, citing logistical challenges and uncertainty over the US’s tariff policies.—
Kathleen Magramo,
CNN Money,
27 Aug. 2025
Noun
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The Cowboys are no strangers to early-season weather delays in Pennsylvania.—
Saad Yousuf,
New York Times,
5 Sep. 2025
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Bieber himself was aware of the anxiety over the delays and posted a couple messages on his Instagram that there seemed to be a technical delay of some sort.—
Abid Rahman,
HollywoodReporter,
5 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The bus service’s long waits also caused crowding and loitering in the area, spokeswoman Pauline Haberman said at the time.—
Elliott Wenzler,
Denver Post,
5 Sep. 2025
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These fictional AIs tapped into our deepest worries about healthcare—long waits at the doctor's office, confusing medical information and the wish for constant health guidance.—
Sanath Chilakala,
Forbes.com,
3 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 9 Sep. 2025.
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