Suspense is the driving force in any story. Learn the definition of suspense in literature and dive into how to create suspense and tension in writing. When you dive into a thriller, you become fully engaged with what you're watching. Suspense thriller movies excel at evoking tension, anxiety, and surprise—elements that are essential for a... Definition of suspense noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Suspense is a state of anxiety or excitement caused by uncertainty or doubt in a narrative work or a real-life situation. Learn about the different types of suspense , how it works in literature, film, and other media, and the paradox of suspense in repeat audiences.