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View synonyms for holding pattern
holding pattern
noun
- a traffic pattern for aircraft at a specified location holding point where they are ordered to remain until permitted to land or proceed.
- a state or period in which no progress or change is made or planned.
holding pattern
noun
- the oval or circular path of an aircraft flying around an airport awaiting permission to land
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Word History and Origins
Origin of holding pattern1
First recorded in 1950–55
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Example Sentences
Hell, James left the entire league in a holding pattern whilst he pondered his future, Hamlet-like.
From The Daily Beast
But the shadow of Clinton places the sitting veep in the unusual position of maintaining a holding pattern.
From The Daily Beast
When it comes to treating cancer, we seem to be in a holding pattern.
From The Daily Beast
The ATR-72 had been in a holding pattern, flying through sleet that caused a build-up of ice on the wings.
From The Daily Beast
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