# patiently

/ˈpeɪʃəntɫi/ (US) · /pˈeɪʃəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/patiently
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

doing something in a calm way without getting angry or upset, even if it takes a long time.

For teachers: in a manner that demonstrates tolerance for delay, trouble, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious.

## Examples

- She waited patiently for the bus to arrive.
- The teacher sat patiently while the student struggled to find the right words to explain the problem.
- The detective watched the house patiently for hours, knowing that any sudden movement might alert the suspect and ruin weeks of careful surveillance.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

---

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.