\A*bey"ance\, n. [OF. abeance expectation, longing; a
(L. ad) + baer, beer, to gape, to look with open mouth, to
expect, F. bayer, LL. badare to gape.]
1. (Law) Expectancy; condition of being undetermined.
Note: When there is no person in existence in whom an
      inheritance (or a dignity) can vest, it is said to be
      in abeyance, that is, in expectation; the law
      considering it as always potentially existing, and
      ready to vest whenever a proper owner appears.
      --Blackstone.
2. Suspension; temporary suppression.
         Keeping the sympathies of love and admiration in a
         dormant state, or state of abeyance.  --De Quincey.