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stay of execution

American  

noun

  • stays of execution
    plural
  1. Law. a court order that delays enforcement of a legal ruling, especially a court order that delays the enforcement of a death penalty.


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Noun Inflected Forms

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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But the beleaguered 63-year UK leader appears to have been granted a stay of execution, of sorts, while Burnham's fate is decided in the Makerfield by-election.

From Barron's May 16, 2026

But sometimes courts have to act to prevent harm as litigation continues at its ordinary pace—for example, by issuing a stay of execution while considering a death-penalty appeal.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 26, 2026

Even with their flaws and mistakes, Rob Pelinka and rookie coach JJ Redick earned at least a stay of execution.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 5, 2025

"I can't help but feel it is a stay of execution for Clement," he said.

From BBC Feb. 16, 2025

“Thank you, Soletta. Perhaps your mother will allow you a stay of execution for a few months.”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool

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