Synonyms for

Waiting

Verb / ˈweɪtɪŋ / Another word for waiting — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of staying in one place or delaying action until a particular time or event occurs.

Synonyms & similar words

expect readyandwaiting await look holdback holdoff wait waitress anticipation expectancy pause delay loitering remaining stay halt stoppage respite interim interval break standstill holdup hang-up postponement procrastination deferment put-off

Synonyms by register

Formal

expecting anticipating awaiting tarrying

Informal

hanging around chilling biding time stalling

Literary

lingering tarrying abiding

Antonyms

acting doing proceeding advancing working engaging acting upon

Common collocations

  • waiting list
  • waiting room
  • waiting for a bus
  • waiting for a train
  • waiting for results
  • waiting patiently
  • waiting in line
  • waiting game

Word family

noun wait
verb wait
adjective waiting
adverb waitingly

Usage note

While 'waiting' often implies inactivity, it can also mean actively anticipating or preparing for something. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. I am waiting for my turn to play the game.
  2. The children are waiting for the school bus.
  3. I hate waiting in long lines at the store.
  4. We are waiting for the rain to stop before going outside.
  5. Waiting for Christmas morning is very exciting.

Quotes

  • The trouble with life is that there are so many beautiful women and so little time. Thank God for waiting rooms.
  • Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
  • All human wisdom is summed up in two words; wait and hope.

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