abeyance

[ uh-bey-uhns ]

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.

abeyance

/ əˈbeɪəns /

noun

1. usually preceded byin or into 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

Derived Forms

• aˈbeyant, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of abeyance¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of abeyance¹

C16-17: from Anglo-French, from Old French abeance expectation, literally a gaping after, a reaching towards

Example Sentences

Brnovich’s Democratic successor, Attorney General Kris Mayes, had urged the state’s high court to side with the Court of Appeals and hold the 1864 law in abeyance.

From Seattle Times

Osmer was found to have neglected his duty and was given a six-day suspension with four of those days held in abeyance.

From Seattle Times

“On the other hand, she made it difficult for anyone to appeal this, and just sort of held it in abeyance. I don't think it's a victory for the special counsel's office.”

From Salon

“By accepting only one of the issues raised by the Governor and holding the other two issues in abeyance, the majority refashions this court as the Governor’s avenue for imposing policy changes without the consent of the governed,” she wrote.

From Seattle Times

However, she stipulated that proceedings were “held in abeyance,” which means something is only temporarily suspended until another matter is resolved, and that if the case returns to her jurisdiction, she’ll determine what to do about the previous schedule—including the March 4 trial date.

From Slate