await

[ uh-weyt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to wait for; expect; look for:

   He is still awaiting an answer.

2. to be in store for; be imminent:

   A pleasant surprise awaits her in today's mail.

3. Obsolete. to lie in wait for.

verb (used without object)

1. to wait, as in expectation.

await

/ əˈweɪt /

verb

1. tr to wait for; expect
2. tr to be in store for
3. intr to wait, esp with expectation
4. obsolete.
   tr to wait for in order to ambush

Other Words From

• a·waiter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of await¹

First recorded in 1225–75; Middle English awaiten, from Old North French awaitier (Old French aguaitier ), equivalent to a- a- ⁵ + waitier wait

Example Sentences

Emmanuel "Jay Jay" Banda, who was facing robbery charges, is accused of having escaped from custody in August as he awaited to appear in court.

From BBC

That, and a staff of smart people who can help him “realize his vision, but also understand all the many, many, many political landmines that await him,” Jaye added.

From Los Angeles Times

According to a Times review of federal court filings, Jan. 6 defendants with pending cases or appeals have sought delays as they await word from Trump; some have been granted, and others denied.

From Los Angeles Times

At the time of the Nov. 5 election, there were 47 vacancies on the federal bench, with 17 nominees awaiting confirmation.

From Salon

This fierce competition is now as keenly awaited as the Ashes.

From BBC

Related Words

• anticipate
• attend
• count on
• stay

When To Use

What are other ways to say await?

To await something is to wait for it or look for it expectantly. How is await different from anticipate, hope, and expect? Find out on Thesaurus.com.