# waits

/ˈweɪts/ (US) · /wˈeɪts/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/waits
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to stay in place

verb · CEFR A1

to stay in a place or delay an action until a particular time or event happens.

For teachers: to remain stationary or in a state of expectation until a specified event occurs. Third-person singular form.

- He waits for the bus at the same corner every morning.
- The patient waits patiently in the reception area while the specialist reviews the latest diagnostic reports from the laboratory.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'for' when an object is present.

### 2. periods of delay

noun · CEFR B1

times when you have to stay and wait for something.

For teachers: plural form denoting instances or durations of remaining in expectation or delay.

- The long waits at the airport made the travelers very tired.
- Frequent waits between connecting flights can significantly increase the overall stress levels of international business travelers.

Usage: Usually plural in this context.

### 3. Christmas singers

noun · CEFR C2 · British English · Archaic

a group of people who sing or play music in the streets at Christmas time.

For teachers: a traditional group of musicians or carolers who perform in public spaces, specifically during the Christmas season.

- The village waits gathered in the square to sing carols for the neighbors.
- Historically, the town waits were professional musicians maintained by the city to perform at official ceremonies and during the winter festivals.

Usage: Almost exclusively used in a historical or festive British context.

## Examples

- She waits for the bus every morning at eight.
- The doctor asks that the patient waits in the lobby until their name is called by the nurse.
- While the market remains volatile, the investor waits for a clear signal of stability before committing any further capital to the emerging technology sector.

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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.