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

We’re just spitballing alternative-history takes here while we await our bountiful tip-jar tax breaks and tariff lucre.

From Slate

We all eagerly await this tedious process.

From Slate

Currently, eight clean air rules await EPA waivers — and some have been waiting for as long as four years.

From Los Angeles Times

Sheriff Peter Paterson allowed him bail until that date to await reports, including a restriction of liberty assessment.

From BBC

And the operatives could depend on one hard-edged principle: that those who style themselves as men of the world know there is an iron fist in every velvet glove, understand what might await them in the shadows and so, having decided to play the game, they will obey its rules.

From Salon

Related Words

• anticipate
• attend
• count on
• stay