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abeyance

Pronunciation: /əˈbeɪəns/

Translate abeyance | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of abeyance

noun

[mass noun]

a state of temporary disuse or suspension:matters were held in abeyance pending further enquiries
Law the position of being without, or of 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- 'towards' + beer 'to gape'