limbo1

 
Pronunciation: /ˈlɪmbəʊ/

noun

[mass noun]
  • 1(in some Christian beliefs) the supposed abode of the souls of unbaptized infants, and of the just who died before Christ’s coming.
  • 2an uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution; an intermediate state or condition: the legal battle could leave the club in limbo until next year
  • a state of neglect or oblivion: these prisoners are in limbo: no one is responsible for their welfare

Origin:

late Middle English: from the medieval Latin phrase in limbo, from limbus 'hem, border, limbo'