status quo

noun

-ˈkwō 

: the existing state of affairs

seeks to preserve the status quo

Synonyms

• normalcy
• normality

Examples of status quo in a Sentence

He is content with the status quo and does not like change.

civic leaders who are afraid to do anything that might change the town's status quo

Recent Examples on the Web

As the military campaign in Gaza turned in Israel’s favor, returning to the pre-October 7 status quo became less acceptable to Israeli leaders. —Carrie A. Lee, Foreign Affairs, 19 Nov. 2024

Regardless, the threat of a geopolitical status quo knocking loose is established per the espionage genre’s wont. —Andy Andersen, Vulture, 27 Oct. 2024

And Latest News This account paints bitcoin as a destabilizing force that could undermine the economic status quo. —Susie Violet Ward, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

The trail of destruction and mass displacement across Lebanon has rapidly upended a fragile status quo between Israel and Hezbollah. —Ruth Michaelson / Beirut, TIME, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, state in which

First Known Use

1719, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

status quo

noun

sta·​tus quo

ˌstāt-ə-ˈskwō,

ˌstat-

: the way things are now

chose to keep the status quo rather than make changes

Legal Definition

status quo

noun

-ˈkwō 

: the existing state of affairs

specifically : the last actual and uncontested state of affairs that preceded a controversy and that is to be preserved by preliminary injunction compare status quo ante

Etymology

Latin, state in which