Suspense

Pronunciation

• IPA: /səˈspÉ›ns/
• Rhymes: -É›ns

Alternative forms

• suspence obsolete

Origin

From Anglo-Norman suspens as in e suspens, from Old French suspens.

Full definition of suspense

Noun

1. The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time.
• Alexander Popea cool suspense from pleasure and from pain
2. the pleasurable emotion of anticipation and excitement regarding the outcome or climax of a book, film etc.
3. The unpleasant emotion of anxiety or apprehension in an uncertain situation.
• DenhamTen days the prophet in suspense remained.
4. (legal) 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.

Derived terms

• suspenseful

Related terms

• cliffhanger
• tenterhook

Adjective

1. (obsolete) Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding.
• Miltongreat light of day suspense in heaven.
2. (obsolete) Expressing, or proceeding from, suspense or doubt.
• MiltonExpectation held his look suspense.----