Definition of "abeyance" in English

noun

1. (law) Expectancy; a condition when an ownership of real property is undetermined; lapse in succession of ownership of estate, or title.

   • The proceeds of the estate shall be held in abeyance in an escrow account until the minor reaches age twenty-one.

2. Suspension; temporary suppression; dormant condition.

3. Expectancy of a noble or armigeral title, its right in existence but its exercise suspended.

   • The broad pennant of a commodore first class has been in abeyance since 1958, together with the rank.