Await

Definition

Await means to wait for something or someone with anticipation or expectation. It implies being in a state of readiness or expectation for an event, outcome, or arrival.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈweɪt/
• Respelling: uh-WAYT

The pronunciation of "await" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "await" originates from the Old French "awaitier," which means "to watch" or "to lie in wait." This was derived from the Latin "ad-" (meaning "to") and "waitier" (meaning "to watch or observe"), giving the word its connotation of anticipation and readiness.

Derivatives

• Awaited (verb)
• Awaiting (verb)
• Unawaited (adjective, rare)
• Reawait (verb, rare)
• Awaiter (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Expect
• Anticipate
• Look forward to

Antonyms

• Dismiss
• Ignore
• Neglect

Usage

The term "await" is commonly used in formal and literary contexts, as in "awaiting a response" or "awaiting orders." It conveys a sense of anticipation or readiness, often associated with an official or expected event. Unlike "wait," which is used more broadly, "await" typically refers to waiting for something specific. It is often followed by a noun or pronoun, but it is not usually followed by "for," as in the phrase "await the arrival" rather than "await for the arrival."

Related Terms

• Expect: To believe something is likely to happen.
• Anticipate: To regard something as probable or likely.
• Prepare: To make ready for a particular purpose or event.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To wait with anticipation or expectation: Describes the act of staying ready for something expected or anticipated.
  • Example: "They awaited news of the decision."
• To be in readiness for someone or something: Refers to the act of preparing oneself to receive or face an expected event or person.
  • Example: "A surprise awaits her upon arrival."