Meaning & Definition of word "Suspense"
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Suspense
/səˈspɛns/
noun:
- 1. A state of feeling excited or anxious about what may happen next.
- Example: The movie was filled with suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
- 2. A quality in a literary work that arouses excited expectation or uncertainty about what may happen.
- Example: The author skillfully built suspense throughout the novel, leading to a shocking climax.
- 3. The condition of being undecided or uncertain.
- Example: There was a sense of suspense in the air as the results of the election were announced.
Etymology
From Middle English, from Old French 'suspens', from Latin 'suspensio'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
suspense build-up:
The gradual increase of tension leading to a climax.
leave in suspense:
To keep someone uncertain about what will happen next.
suspenseful moment:
A critical point in a story that creates tension or uncertainty.
Related Words
tension:
Mental or emotional strain.
anticipation:
Expectation or prediction of something.
drama:
A situation or sequence of events that is exciting and full of conflict.
Slang Meanings of suspense
Meaning: Nail-biter
Example Sentence: That last scene was a real nail-biter, full of suspense.
Meaning: Page-turner
Example Sentence: The book was such a page-turner, I couldn't put it down because of the suspense.