1
as in suspension
a state of temporary inactivity
repair work on the bridge was in a holding pattern for the duration of the winter
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in delay
an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business
the couple has been trapped in this holding pattern for six months, as adoption officials create more red tape
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of holding pattern
Aborted landings, diversions, and holding patterns are all routine procedures designed to enhance air travel safety.
—
Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 13 Feb. 2025
After being in a holding pattern for over a week, the Sparta II has finally been allowed to dock at Tarth's to evacuate the Russian equipment from the base.
—Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
It’s expected to pursue policies that some economists warn could accelerate inflation and ultimately force the Fed into a holding pattern on interest rates.
—Andrew Ross Sorkin, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025
In aviation, real-time data has enabled airports to significantly reduce the need for holding patterns, saving time and fuel, and reducing environmental impact.
—Don Murray, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for holding pattern
Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 13 Feb. 2025
After being in a holding pattern for over a week, the Sparta II has finally been allowed to dock at Tarth's to evacuate the Russian equipment from the base.
—Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
It’s expected to pursue policies that some economists warn could accelerate inflation and ultimately force the Fed into a holding pattern on interest rates.
—Andrew Ross Sorkin, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025
In aviation, real-time data has enabled airports to significantly reduce the need for holding patterns, saving time and fuel, and reducing environmental impact.
—Don Murray, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for holding pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holding pattern
Noun
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Asked about the suspension at a briefing Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the U.S. uses every available resource to vet people applying for visas.—
Annie Ma,
Chicago Tribune,
28 May 2025
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The suspension encompasses all categories under the F visa classification, including F-1 visas for academic students and F-2 visas for their dependents.—
Billal Rahman,
MSNBC Newsweek,
28 May 2025
Noun
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Nola’s delay Two days ago, Aaron Nola tested his sprained right ankle for the first time since going on the injured list May 16.—
Matt Gelb,
New York Times,
26 May 2025
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Because of the trial delays, her test date fell during the murder trial.—
Amy Lavalley,
Chicago Tribune,
25 May 2025
Noun
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Set during a mysterious dinner party in London, the film combines suspense, satire and social commentary.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
22 May 2025
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And while Murderbot is a blend of sci-fi with action and suspense, comedy is at the heart of the series.—
Tim Lammers,
Forbes.com,
22 May 2025
Noun
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Additionally, average call wait times have risen from just over an hour to 86 minutes this year, reaching a peak of 112 minutes in January following the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act.—
Hugh Cameron,
MSNBC Newsweek,
29 May 2025
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In healthcare, Canadian hospitals are experiencing record wait times.—
Andy J. Semotiuk,
Forbes.com,
29 May 2025
Noun
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Security measures include multi-user approval protocols, cold storage for 96% of funds, and advanced encryption for private keys.—
Roomy Khan,
Forbes,
12 Mar. 2025
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Funds from investors using the program often go to Regional Centers, which distribute money into different projects, from highway construction to resort hotels to cold storage facilities in rural areas.—
Tommy Tuberville,
Newsweek,
6 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Holding pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holding%20pattern. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.
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