abeyance

American  

[uh-bey-uhns] / əˈbeɪ əns /

noun

1. temporary inactivity, cessation, or suspension.

   Let's hold that problem in abeyance for a while.

   Synonyms:

   deferral, remission

2. Law. a state or condition of real property in which title is not as yet vested in a known titleholder.

   an estate in abeyance.

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abeyance British  

/ əˈbeɪəns /

noun

1. a state of being suspended or put aside temporarily

2. (usually preceded by in) law an indeterminate state of ownership, as when the person entitled to an estate has not been ascertained

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Other Word Forms

• abeyant adjective

Etymology

Origin of abeyance

1520–30; < Anglo-French; Old French abeance aspiration, literally, a gaping at or toward. See a- ⁵, bay ², -ance

Example Sentences

The chief worry for White is that until 2020 most supply shocks were positive and disinflationary, as globalization and efficient supply chains kept prices in abeyance.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 7, 2026

In all cases the removal of his titles and honours has been voluntary and they remain in abeyance, though not in use.

From BBC • Oct. 21, 2025

The gun charge would be held in abeyance and would be nixed if he keeps a clean record while serving two years on probation for the tax charges.

From Washington Times • Jul. 5, 2023

Logic and plausibility are held in abeyance to pave the way for the next juicy pop number.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2023

It was much as Bunderson had described it to Reggie in August, but there was an important caveat to the plea in abeyance.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel