waiting
n.-
1 staying in expectation (n.) A1 Beginnerthe time you spend staying in a place until something happens.
the act or period of remaining in a state of expectation or anticipation.
ExampleAfter an hour of waiting, the doctor finally called my name.
ExampleThe long waiting in the terminal was made more bearable by the comfortable seating and the availability of high-speed internet.
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2 attendance or service (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Literarythe 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.
ExampleThe lady-in-waiting helped the queen prepare for the ceremony.
ExampleThe 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'.
From Middle English waitinge, waytynge, waitende, weytende, waitand, waytand, equivalent to wait + -ing.
From Middle English waitynge, waytynge, equivalent to wait + -ing.
- 01
accident waiting to happen
A thing or situation which is almost certain to eventually lead to an accident.
- 02
ready and waiting
Already prepared for action or use.
- 03
waiting game
A strategy or course of action in which one or more parties refrain from direct action until circumstances change in their favor.