suspense /səˈspɛns/noun 5adjective 2forms 1 noun5 •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.Ten days the prophet in suspense remain'd. — 1636 •(US) A deadline.She sent us that assignment with a suspense of noon tomorrow. •The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time.For thee the Fates, severely kind, ordain / A cool suspense from pleasure and from pain; / Thy life a long dead calm of fix'd repose; / No pulse that riots, and no blood that glows. — 1717 •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. adjective2 •(no longer used) Held or lifted up; held or prevented from proceeding.[The great light of day] suspens in heav'n. — 1667 •(no longer used) Expressing, or proceeding from, suspense or doubt.Expectation held his look suspense. — 1667 formssuspenses
