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Definition of suspense

suspense

/səˈspɛns/
sus · pense
Adverb:suspensefully
•
Adjective:suspenseful
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suspense Lexical Profile

suspense Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A state or feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen next.

Example

"The director skillfully built the suspense throughout the final act of the mystery film."

2

The temporary cessation or postponement of an action, decision, or legal right; a state of abeyance.

Example

"The disputed funds were held in a suspense account until the audit was completed."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for suspense

• Nearby Words

suspender
suspendered
suspenders
suspense
suspenseful
suspensefully
suspensefulness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French 'suspens', from Latin 'suspensus', the past participle of 'suspendere' meaning 'to hang up' or 'to keep in uncertainty' (from 'sub-', meaning 'from below', and 'pendere', meaning 'to hang').

Cite this Entry

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