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Definitions

abeyance

[uh-bey-uhns] / əˈbeɪ əns /
NOUN
being inactive or suspended
Synonyms
STRONG
discontinuation dormancy inactivity intermission latency postponement quiescence recess remission suspension waiting
WEAK
temporarily deferred
Antonyms
STRONG
continuation
WEAK
action activity continuance operation renewal revival

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The chief worry for White is that until 2020 most supply shocks were positive and disinflationary, as globalization and efficient supply chains kept prices in abeyance.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 7, 2026

Only legislation can formally remove his dukedom, which is now held in abeyance.

From BBC • Oct. 23, 2025

Gandhi’s disqualification as a lawmaker also now remains in abeyance, said Live Law, an online portal for Indian legal news.

From Washington Times • Aug. 4, 2023

Those funds were held in abeyance, but Pechman now wants the state to pay $100 million of those fines.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 8, 2023

All their natural behavior was held in abeyance.

From "Tiger, Tiger" by Lynne Reid Banks

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.