Meaning & Definition of word "Waiting"
to
Waiting
/ˈweɪtɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. The act of staying in one place or remaining inactive until something happens.
- Example: My waiting for the appointment took longer than expected.
- 2. A period of time spent waiting.
- Example: There was a long waiting in the doctor's office.
verb:
- 1. To remain in a state of rest or inaction until something expected happens.
- Example: I am waiting for the bus to arrive.
- 2. To postpone action until a later time.
- Example: She is waiting to make a decision until she has more information.
- 3. To serve (someone) by handling their needs or requests until they are attended to.
- Example: The waiter is waiting on the customers at the table.
Etymology
From the Old English 'wæitan', meaning 'to watch'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
waiting in the wings:
Being ready to take action when needed.
waiting for the other shoe to drop:
Anticipating an inevitable problem or conclusion.
waiting on:
To depend on someone or something.
Related Words
wait:
To remain in a state of inactivity.
waiter:
A person who serves food in a restaurant.
waste:
To spend time in a careless or unnecessary manner.
Slang Meanings of waiting
Meaning: Hurry up and wait.
Example Sentence: We got there early, but it was all hurry up and wait for the show to start.
Meaning: On standby.
Example Sentence: I'm on standby for a call back from the producer.