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Dictionary Language resources

abeyance

Syllabification: (a·bey·ance)

Pronunciation: /əˈbāəns/

Translate abeyance | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of abeyance

noun

a state of temporary disuse or suspension:matters were held in abeyance pending further inquiries
Law the position of being without, or waiting for, an owner or claimant.

Derivatives

abeyant

Origin:

late 16th century (in the legal sense): from Old French abeance 'aspiration to a title', from abeer 'aspire after', from a- 'toward' + beer 'to gape'