holding pattern
noun
1
: the usually oval course flown (as over an airport) by aircraft awaiting clearance especially to land
2
: a state of waiting or suspended activity or progress
Synonyms
Examples of holding pattern in a Sentence
Our plane was in a holding pattern for almost an hour because of the fog.
repair work on the bridge was in a holding pattern for the duration of the winter
Recent Examples on the Web
That case is in a holding pattern amid Weinstein’s appeal and the decision Thursday.
—
Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2024
And this holding pattern constrains supply and also keeps prices high.
—Terri Williams, Forbes, 27 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for holding pattern 
Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2024
And this holding pattern constrains supply and also keeps prices high.
—Terri Williams, Forbes, 27 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for holding pattern
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'holding pattern.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near holding pattern
Cite this Entry
“Holding pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holding%20pattern. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
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