First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
suspense
noun sus·pense \sə-ˈspen(t)s\
: a feeling or state of nervousness or excitement caused by wondering what will happen
Full Definition of SUSPENSE
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a : mental uncertainty : anxiety b : pleasant excitement as to a decision or outcome <a novel of suspense>
3
: the state or character of being undecided or doubtful : indecisiveness
— sus·pense·ful \-fəl\ adjective
— sus·pense·ful·ly \-fə-lē\ adverb
— sus·pense·ful·ness \-fəl-nəs\ noun
— sus·pense·less \-ləs\ adjective
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Origin of SUSPENSE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from suspendre
Related to SUSPENSE
- Synonyms
- cold storage, deep freeze, doldrums, dormancy, holding pattern, latency, moratorium, quiescence, suspended animation, abeyance, suspension
- Antonyms
- continuance, continuation
Rhymes with SUSPENSE
SUSPENSELESS Defined for Kids
suspense
noun sus·pense \sə-ˈspens\
Definition of SUSPENSE for Kids
: uncertainty, worry, or excitement in wondering about the result of something <Annemarie always tried … to build up the suspense and tantalize her sister. — Lois Lowry, Number the Stars>
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