# limbo

/ˈɫɪmboʊ/ (US) · /lˈɪmbəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/limbo
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a state where you are waiting for a decision or change, but nothing is happening. It feels like being stuck between two stages without knowing what will happen next.

For teachers: an intermediate or transitional state characterized by uncertainty, neglect, or lack of progress. Often describes a period of waiting for a formal resolution that is delayed or stalled.

## Examples

- My visa application is in limbo while they check my documents.
- The legal case remained in limbo for months as both parties waited for the judge to review the new evidence.
- After the merger was announced, the employees lived in a state of professional limbo, unsure whether their specific departments would be integrated or dissolved entirely by the new parent company.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the prepositional phrase 'in limbo'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.