suspense Meaning & Definition
What Does Suspense Mean?
Suspense is a noun that means The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time. It is also used to mean The pleasurable emotion of anticipation and excitement regarding the outcome or climax of a book, film etc. As an adjective, it means Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding.
Suspense: Key Facts
| Part of speech | noun, adjective |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | //səˈspɛns// |
| Syllables | 1 |
| Plural | suspenses |
Suspense Definition (Noun)
- The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time.
- The pleasurable emotion of anticipation and excitement regarding the outcome or climax of a book, film etc.
- The unpleasant emotion of anxiety or apprehension in an uncertain situation.
- A temporary cessation of one's right; suspension, as when the rent or other profits of land cease by unity of possession of land and rent.
- A deadline.
She sent us that assignment with a suspense of noon tomorrow.
Suspense as an Adjective
- Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding.
- Expressing, or proceeding from, suspense or doubt.
Synonyms of Suspense
The source does not list synonyms for this entry.
Suspense synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Suspense
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Suspense in a Sentence
She sent us that assignment with a suspense of noon tomorrow.
Word Forms & Grammar
suspense (usually uncountable, plural suspenses)
suspense (not comparable)
Words That Rhyme With Suspense
Origin of Suspense
From Middle English suspense, suspence, from Anglo-Norman suspens (as in en suspens) and Old French suspens, from Latin suspēnsus.
How Do You Say Suspense?
Suspense is pronounced //səˈspɛns// and has 1 syllable.