suspense

Meanings

Noun

• The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time.
• the pleasurable emotion of anticipation and excitement regarding the outcome or climax of a book, film etc.
• The unpleasant emotion of anxiety or apprehension in an uncertain situation.
• A temporary cessation of one's right; suspension, as when the rent or other profits of land cease by unity of possession of land and rent.

Adjective

• Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding.
• Expressing, or proceeding from, suspense or doubt.

Origin

• From Middle English suspense, suspence, from Anglo-Norman suspens (as in en suspens) and Old French suspens, from Latin suspēnsus.