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Definition of cliffhanging

cliffhanging

/ˈklɪfˌhæŋ.ɪŋ/
cliff · hang · ing
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cliffhanging Lexical Profile

cliffhanging Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by intense suspense, uncertainty, or excitement right up until the final outcome.

Example

"The championship match ended in a cliffhanging tiebreaker that kept the entire stadium on the edge of their seats."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

clientele
cliff
cliffhanger
cliffhanging
clifflike
clifford
cliffside

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century from the noun 'cliffhanger', alluding to early serialized adventure films in which protagonists were left literally hanging from the edge of a cliff at the end of an episode.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cliffhanging. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cliffhanging
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