suspense

noun

sus·​pense sə-ˈspen(t)s How to pronounce suspense (audio)
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
suspenseful adjective
suspensefully adverb
suspensefulness noun
suspenseless adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His responses to unseen phenomena transform everyday domestic spaces into realms of suspense and terror. Brian Welk, IndieWire, 12 Mar. 2025 Meanwhile, Moura, who plays Manny, opened up about the process of developing his character’s dynamic with Henry, revealing how their chemistry—both on and off-screen—helped elevate the series’ suspense and emotional core. Okla Jones, Essence, 11 Mar. 2025 Landon’s command of suspense, coupled with a compelling romantic thread and delightful performances from Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus) and Brandon Sklenar, make Drop a solid popcorn movie. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Mar. 2025 Everything needs to be in its right place, from the camp to the psychological suspense to the dark humor. Travis Bean, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for suspense

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from suspendre

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of suspense was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

suspense

noun
sus·​pense sə-ˈspen(t)s How to pronounce suspense (audio)
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
suspenseful adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on suspense

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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