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
Synonyms
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
In crafting the scene’s suspense, editor Joe Walker mapped out where the action and roar of the crowd would peak.
—
Daron James, Los Angeles Times, 6 Dec. 2024
What’s At Stake in the West Group B offers the most suspense and the most permutations to determine both the pool winner and the potential West wild card.
—Jack Magruder, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024
Not since the conclusion of Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1 have audiences been left in such suspense.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 21 Nov. 2024
Trump quickly ended suspense over who his chief of staff would be, announcing the first woman to hold the position on Thursday following his victory early Wednesday.
—Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 9 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for suspense 
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Daron James, Los Angeles Times, 6 Dec. 2024
What’s At Stake in the West Group B offers the most suspense and the most permutations to determine both the pool winner and the potential West wild card.
—Jack Magruder, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024
Not since the conclusion of Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1 have audiences been left in such suspense.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 21 Nov. 2024
Trump quickly ended suspense over who his chief of staff would be, announcing the first woman to hold the position on Thursday following his victory early Wednesday.
—Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 9 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for suspense
Dictionary Entries Near suspense
Cite this Entry
“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.
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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