suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s 
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement as to a decision or outcome
a novel of suspense
3
: the state or character of being undecided or doubtful : indecisiveness
Examples of suspense in a Sentence
I can't bear the suspense.
The suspense builds as the story progresses.
Alfred Hitchcock was a master of suspense.
The movie is a suspense thriller.
Recent Examples on the Web
Inspired by the suspense-building music used in horror films, the technology, called Spherephones, is designed to improve workplace safety in environments where humans and robots work side by side.
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Jijo Malayil,
Interesting Engineering,
2 July 2026
The stage is set for unbelievable tension and suspense-building, and it's executed perfectly through Spielberg's directorial prowess with memorable scenes from raptors in the kitchen to a T-Rex in the toilet.
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Grace Dean,
Space.com,
1 July 2026
The Internet has unintentionally killed the suspense for nearly everything, up to and including concerts.
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Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
30 June 2026
One of the first films of its kind, this lesbian gangster heist thriller delivers suspense and humor.
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Liam Hess,
Vogue,
28 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for suspense
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Jijo Malayil,
Interesting Engineering,
2 July 2026
The stage is set for unbelievable tension and suspense-building, and it's executed perfectly through Spielberg's directorial prowess with memorable scenes from raptors in the kitchen to a T-Rex in the toilet.
—
Grace Dean,
Space.com,
1 July 2026
The Internet has unintentionally killed the suspense for nearly everything, up to and including concerts.
—
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
30 June 2026
One of the first films of its kind, this lesbian gangster heist thriller delivers suspense and humor.
—
Liam Hess,
Vogue,
28 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for suspense
Cite this Entry
“Suspense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suspense. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
suspense
noun
sus·pense
sə-ˈspen(t)s
1
: the state of being suspended : suspension
2
a
: mental uncertainty : anxiety
b
: pleasant excitement caused by wondering what will happen
a novel of suspense
3
: the state of being undecided
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