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Definitions

pending

[pen-ding] / ˈpɛn dɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
impending; undecided
Synonyms
STRONGEST
imminent impending undecided
WEAK
awaiting continuing dependent forthcoming hanging in line in the balance in the offing in the works indeterminate ominous on board on line pendent undetermined unsettled up in the air
Antonyms
STRONGEST
distant later
WEAK
improbable unlikely

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 state attorneys general sued to block the merger on March 18, when the transaction was still pending at the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Representatives for both the city and the Police Department said Monday that they were unable to comment on pending litigation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Realtor.com, which, like Zillow, has a home listing portal, reported that pending sales last month were 3.9% higher than a year prior.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

The brief unsigned order from the Supreme Court cited "the pending motion to dismiss the indictment".

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Hamilton requested a brief delay so that he could complete some pending legal business and put his personal affairs in order.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis