Expectant

/ɪkˈspɛk.tənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a person who is anticipating or expecting something
As an expectant in the training program, he was eager to learn and develop his skills.
adjective
having or marked by expectation; hopeful
The expectant parents decorated the nursery in anticipation of their baby's arrival.
characterized by or indicating expectation; waiting for something to happen
The crowd was expectant as they awaited the announcement of the winner.
in a state of anticipation or excitement about something that is expected
She had an expectant look on her face when she entered the room, as if she was waiting for someone special.

Etymology

From the Latin 'expectans', present participle of 'expectare', meaning to await or to look forward to.

Common Phrases and Expressions

expectant mother:
A woman who is pregnant and awaiting childbirth.
expectant audience:
An audience that is eagerly awaiting a performance or event.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Waiting for something exciting to happen.
He was in an expectant mood before the game started.
Feeling eager anticipation.
There's an expectant vibe in the room before the big announcement.