pending

[pen-ding]

preposition

1. while awaiting; until.

   pending his return.

2. in the period before the decision or conclusion of; during.

   pending the negotiations.

adjective

1. remaining undecided; awaiting decision or settlement; unfinished.

   pending business; pending questions; pending litigation.

2. about to take place; impending.

pending

/ ˈpɛndɪŋ /

preposition

1. while waiting for or anticipating

adjective

1. not yet decided, confirmed, or finished

   what are the matters pending?

2. imminent

   these developments have been pending for some time

Other Word Forms

• nonpending adjective
• unpending adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pending¹

1635–45; pend + -ing ², on the model of French pendant ( pendent )

Example Sentences

Paramount representatives have declined to comment on the pending layoffs beyond saying they hope to achieve the cuts with one large round.

From Los Angeles Times

A half-dozen other immigration bills are still pending in the Legislature.

From Los Angeles Times

In that case, he was arrested on suspicion of inciting violence, and has been bailed "pending further investigation".

From BBC

The police said his condition was not life-threatening and he was bailed pending further investigation.

From BBC

The city attorney’s office said litigation with other defendants is pending.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• imminent 
• impending 
• undecided