suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s 
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement as to a decision or outcome
a novel of suspense
3
: the state or character of being undecided or doubtful : indecisiveness
Examples of suspense in a Sentence
I can't bear the suspense.
The suspense builds as the story progresses.
Alfred Hitchcock was a master of suspense.
The movie is a suspense thriller.
Recent Examples on the Web
Her dialogue-light hospital mission is a marvel of suspense generated through point of view; walking down hospital corridors dressed as a nurse isn’t inherently exciting.
—
Jesse Hassenger, Vulture, 14 May 2025
Was that decision intentional to play into the suspense of whether Joe is actually going to get caught?
—Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 25 Apr. 2025
The show tries to mirror the series’ playful/scary tone, mixing teen humor with high energy, true emotions and suspense.
—Frank Rizzo, Variety, 23 Apr. 2025
Dive right into the award-winning film's suspense as the cardinals gather to elect a new leader and watch as art imitates life this April.
—Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for suspense
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Jesse Hassenger, Vulture, 14 May 2025
Was that decision intentional to play into the suspense of whether Joe is actually going to get caught?
—Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 25 Apr. 2025
The show tries to mirror the series’ playful/scary tone, mixing teen humor with high energy, true emotions and suspense.
—Frank Rizzo, Variety, 23 Apr. 2025
Dive right into the award-winning film's suspense as the cardinals gather to elect a new leader and watch as art imitates life this April.
—Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for suspense
Cite this Entry
“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 19 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement caused by wondering what will happen
a novel of suspense
3
: the state of being undecided
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