holding pattern

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.

Tuesday to enter a holding pattern over the Gulf of Oman.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

So, as it stands, both Jersey and the Isle of Man are in a holding pattern, waiting for their respective assisted dying bills to get pass into law.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Seaport Research Partners’ David Joyce said the margin concerns were “overblown,” but added that shares ought to remain in likely in “a deal-related holding pattern for awhile.”

From Barron's • Jan. 21, 2026

Most aircraft had already been rerouted around the closed airspace, but the agency said it diverted one plane and put another in a holding pattern for 24 minutes.

From Salon • Jan. 12, 2026

But the room, although dim, isn’t dark enough, so I switch my mind into the holding pattern that passes for attention.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood