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waiting

adjective

/ˈweɪ tɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of waiting

In anticipation or expectation of something.
"The passengers grew restless while waiting for their delayed flight."

Detailed meaning of waiting

It implies a period of time spent in readiness for a particular event, action, or outcome. When someone or something is described as waiting, it suggests that they are patiently or anxiously staying in a state of readiness, often with the hope or belief that something will happen or someone will arrive. Waiting can evoke feelings of anticipation, uncertainty, or even impatience, as individuals are poised for a desired outcome or resolution. It can also involve a sense of passivity, as the waiting party is reliant on external factors or circumstances before they can proceed or take action. Overall, the adjective 'waiting' encompasses the idea of being in a state of preparedness or expectation, ready to respond or engage once the awaited event or condition occurs.

Example sentences containing waiting

1. She sat in the doctor's office, feeling anxious during the waiting period.
2. The children excitedly huddled together, eagerly anticipating the start of the show.
3. The dog wagged its tail in joyful anticipation, aware that a treat was waiting for it.
4. He glanced at his watch, growing increasingly impatient during the long waiting time.
5. The students sat quietly in the classroom, their eyes fixed on the clock, waiting for the bell to ring.
6. She stood in line, patiently waiting for her turn to purchase the concert tickets.

History and etymology of waiting

The adjective 'waiting' is derived from the verb 'wait,' which has its etymological roots in Old English. The Old English word 'wætan' meant 'to watch' or 'to stay alert.' Over time, 'wait' evolved to signify the act of staying in a particular place or remaining in anticipation or expectation of something. 'Waiting' as an adjective describes the state of being in this anticipatory condition. It conveys the idea of patiently staying or being prepared for a certain event or outcome. The etymology of 'waiting' reflects the original notion of vigilant observation and readiness that has evolved into the modern sense of waiting for something to happen or to arrive.

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Further usage examples of waiting

1. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, enticing the customers who were waiting in line.
2. The expectant parents spent hours decorating the nursery, eagerly waiting for their baby to arrive.
3. The package sat unopened on the doorstep, waiting for its recipient to return home.
4. The job applicant anxiously checked their email, hoping for a response from the employer who was reviewing their application.
5. The rescue team stayed on high alert, always ready and waiting for any emergency calls that might come in.
6. She sat there, waiting for the bus to arrive.
7. He was waiting patiently for his turn in line.
8. The students were waiting eagerly for the exam results.
9. The family gathered, waiting for the baby's arrival.
10. I'm still waiting for a response to my email.
11. The audience was waiting in anticipation for the concert.
12. We spent hours waiting for the rain to stop.
13. She's been waiting for this moment her whole life.
14. The restaurant was crowded, with diners waiting for a table.
15. He checked his watch while waiting for the meeting.
16. They stood there, waiting for the signal to cross.
17. The passengers were waiting for the delayed flight.
18. She was waiting for the right opportunity to speak.
19. We were all waiting to hear the breaking news.
20. He paced back and forth, waiting for her call.
21. The children were waiting for the ice cream truck.
22. The anticipation was building while waiting for the reveal.
23. They sat in silence, waiting for the verdict.
24. The customers were waiting for the store to open.
25. He tapped his fingers, impatiently waiting for the elevator.