WorldAugust 13, 2026

pendency

PEN-den-see

Definition

The state or condition of being waiting or undecided; in a legal context, it refers to the backlog of unresolved cases.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'pendere,' meaning to hang or weigh. It entered English to describe something 'hanging' or waiting for a conclusion, particularly in legal and administrative contexts.

In the news

The Supreme Court requested a report on the 'mounting pendency' in consumer commissions to understand why so many cases are waiting to be heard or concluded. The term highlights the court's concern over the massive backlog that prevents timely justice for consumers.

'Quality Crisis In Consumer Commissions' : Supreme Court Flags Arrears, Seeks NCDRC President Report

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