suspense Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun apprehension about what is going to happen
  2. noun an uncertain cognitive state
    • the matter remained in suspense for several years
  3. noun excited anticipation of an approaching climax
    • the play kept the audience in suspense

WordNet

Sus*pense" adjective
Etymology
F. suspens, L. suspensus, p.p. of suspendere. See Suspend.
Definitions
  1. Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding. Obs.
    [The great light of day] suspense in heaven. Milton.
  2. Expressing, or proceeding from, suspense or doubt. Obs. "Expectation held his look suspense." Milton.
Sus*pense" noun
Etymology
From F. suspens, a. See Suspense, a.
Definitions
  1. The state of being suspended; specifically, a state of uncertainty and expectation, with anxiety or apprehension; indetermination; indecision; as, the suspense of a person waiting for the verdict of a jury.
    Ten days the prophet in suspense remained. Denham.
    Upon the ticklish balance of suspense. Cowper.
  2. Cessation for a time; stop; pause.
    A cool suspense from pleasure and from pain. Pope.
  3. Cf. F. suspense. (Law) 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.

Webster 1913