pending
Translation
pending, awaiting
Examples
The patent application is still pending.
The patent application is still pending.
He was released on bail pending his appeal.
He was released on bail pending his appeal.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) is pending (adjective) to be awaiting a decision The patent application is still pending.
pending ((sth.)) (preposition) until (sth.) happens He was released on bail pending his appeal.
Similar Words
Synonyms: awaiting, unresolved, undecided; Antonyms: decided, resolved, completed
Etymology
From Latin 'pendere' meaning 'to hang'. Something 'pending' is 'hanging' in the air, waiting for a decision.
Memory Tips
Imagine a file hanging from a hook, 'pending' approval.