in waiting

Idioms  

1. In attendance, especially on a royal personage. For example, The prelates who were in waiting asked him to take the last rites. This usage has become less common with the diminution of royalty and royal courts but still survives. [Late 1600s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in waiting

It was a message for the government and a new prime minister in waiting.

From BBC ● Jul. 14, 2026

If no one sparks a contest, then Burnham will be crowned Labour leader -- and prime minister in waiting -- at a special conference on July 17.

From Barron's ● Jul. 9, 2026

Somehow, though, Sara Dosa’s documentary on this matter, “Time and Water,” avoids playing like a funeral in waiting.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 5, 2026

But we shouldn’t pretend that every whiplash claim is a miniature trial in waiting.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 30, 2026

Moreover, there would be no satisfaction in waiting at the bus stop with Rosy.

From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson

Related Words

• delayed
• negotiated
• postponed