waiting
- 01 A1 Beginner
the time you spend staying in a place until something happens.
the act or period of remaining in a state of expectation or anticipation.
Simple“After an hour of waiting, the doctor finally called my name.”
In context“The long waiting in the terminal was made more bearable by the comfortable seating and the availability of high-speed internet.”
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the act of serving or helping someone, especially in a formal way.
the act of attending or serving, particularly in a formal or royal household context.
Simple“The lady-in-waiting helped the queen prepare for the ceremony.”
In context“The position involved constant waiting upon the duchess, requiring the staff to be available at all hours of the day and night.”
UsageOften found in the phrase 'lady-in-waiting'.
Synonyms
Usage waiting list · waiting room · waiting lists
From Middle English waitinge, waytynge, waitende, weytende, waitand, waytand, equivalent to wait + -ing.
From Middle English waitynge, waytynge, equivalent to wait + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.