# expectant

/ɪkˈspɛktənt/ (US) · /ɛkspˈɛktənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/expectant
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

waiting for something to happen, especially a baby. It describes a person who is pregnant or a situation where you are waiting for a specific result.

For teachers: waiting for a specific event or outcome; in a medical context, refers to a pregnant woman or the state of pregnancy.

## Examples

- The expectant mother waited for the doctor's arrival.
- The expectant parents gathered in the waiting room, hoping to hear the news of their child's health.
- The expectant atmosphere in the delivery room was palpable as the medical team prepared for the imminent arrival of the newborn.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.