waiting

word · lemma: wait

/ˈweɪtɪŋ/
WAY-ting
/wˈeɪtɪŋ/
WAY-ting

Definition

The action or process of staying in one place or delaying an action until a particular time or event happens.

Usage & Nuances

Often used with prepositions like 'for' or 'until'. Common collocations include 'waiting room', 'waiting time', and 'waiting list'. It can refer both to physical waiting and to delaying decisions or actions. The word is informal and neutral in tone.

Example Sentences

We are waiting for the pizza to arrive.

basic

I’m so tired of waiting in this long line!

natural

There’s no need for waiting; just come inside.

natural

He kept waiting for her call all night.

natural

The doctor asked me to be waiting in the lobby.

basic

She is waiting for the bus.

basic