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

For the past four years it is one of the books that I most eagerly await.

From The Daily Beast

The pyramids of Meroe await a day when stability will allow outsiders to peek at a forgotten ancient kingdom.

From The Daily Beast

While many await discovery in musty warehouses, there is at least one piece whose absence is more difficult to explain.

From The Daily Beast

They are being held in a prison in Sicily and await judicial action.

From The Daily Beast

They will be subjected to inquisition, and will await resurrection in the grave like any normal Muslim.

From The Daily Beast

I am therefore quite sure I shall be content to await his father's consent, should it not come these many years.

From Project Gutenberg

The hour was beyond the time in which he ought to have been in the imperial boudoir, to await the hand of his intended bride.

From Project Gutenberg

I was obliged to remain behind, as I had promised my travelling companion to await his arrival.

From Project Gutenberg

For new taxes, however, it would doubtless be necessary to await the formation of a new ministry.

From Project Gutenberg

General Miller then relinquished the pursuit and returned to Yloilo to await reinforcements for a campaign through the Island.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• anticipate
• attend
• count on
• stay