Wait

Definition

Wait refers to the act of staying in one place or delaying action until a specific time or event occurs. It can also signify a period of time spent in anticipation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪt/
• Respelling: WAYT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪt/
• Respelling: WAYT

Etymology

The word "wait" originates from the Old Northern French "waitier," meaning "to watch" or "be awake," derived from the Frankish "wahtōn" (to watch). It entered Middle English in the 12th century, evolving to include meanings of delay and anticipation.

Derivatives

• Waiting (noun/adjective)
• Waiter (noun)
• Waitress (noun)
• Waitlist (noun)
• Outwait (verb)

Synonyms

• Delay
• Pause
• Anticipate

Antonyms

• Rush
• Advance
• Proceed

Usage

The verb "wait" is used to describe staying in place or postponing action, such as "We will wait here until the train arrives." The noun form refers to the duration of time spent in anticipation, for example, "The wait at the doctor's office was long."

Related Terms

• Anticipation: The action of expecting or looking forward to something.
• Delay: The act of postponing or slowing down an action.
• Patience: The ability to wait without frustration or complaint.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To stay in one place until something happens: Refers to remaining in a location until an event or condition occurs.
  • Example: "Please wait for me at the entrance."
• To delay action until a particular moment: Describes pausing activity until a specified time or event.
  • Example: "They decided to wait before making a decision."

Noun

• A period of time spent in anticipation: Refers to the duration during which one remains inactive while expecting something to occur.
  • Example: "The wait for the bus seemed endless."
• A state of readiness or delay: Describes the condition of being on standby for an event or action.
  • Example: "The system is in a wait state until the data is processed."