holding pattern

noun

1. a traffic pattern for aircraft at a specified location holding point where they are ordered to remain until permitted to land or proceed.
2. a state or period in which no progress or change is made or planned.

holding pattern

noun

1. the oval or circular path of an aircraft flying around an airport awaiting permission to land

Word History and Origins

Origin of holding pattern¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Families across the region looking to switch from in-person to virtual learning during the school year now are in a holding pattern.

From Voice of San Diego

“We’re in a holding pattern,” said Brenda Wolff, president of the county school board, the day before the guidance was released.

From Washington Post

That holding pattern is unlikely to remain in place forever.

From Vox

San Diego though is still in a holding pattern with its Sports Arena project.

From Voice of San Diego

All of which leaves Schumer in something of a holding pattern.

From Time

Hell, James left the entire league in a holding pattern whilst he pondered his future, Hamlet-like.

From The Daily Beast

But the shadow of Clinton places the sitting veep in the unusual position of maintaining a holding pattern.

From The Daily Beast

When it comes to treating cancer, we seem to be in a holding pattern.

From The Daily Beast

The ATR-72 had been in a holding pattern, flying through sleet that caused a build-up of ice on the wings.

From The Daily Beast