expectancy

American  

[ik-spek-tuhn-see] / ɪkˈspɛk tən si /

Also expectance

noun

plural

expectancies

1. the quality or state of expecting; expectation; anticipatory belief or desire.

2. the state of being expected.

3. an object of expectation; something expected.

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expectancy British  

/ ɪkˈspɛktənsɪ /

noun

1. something expected, esp on the basis of a norm or average

   his life expectancy was 30 years

2. anticipation; expectation

3. the prospect of a future interest or possession, esp in property

   an estate in expectancy

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Etymology

Origin of expectancy

From the Medieval Latin word ex(s)pectantia, dating back to 1590–1600. See expectant, -ancy

Example Sentences

Transplant is seen as a last resort, Dr Holm explained, telling reporters that individuals must be significantly ill and have a limited life expectancy before a lung transplant can be deemed appropriate.

From BBC

The Internal Revenue Service calculates RMDs by taking the balances of your tax-deferred retirement accounts at the end of the previous year and dividing that by a number based on your life expectancy.

From MarketWatch

The hearing was told this was while the class were discussing mental health and life expectancy, with one pupil "taken aback" as she was "going through struggles" at the time.

From BBC

And in 2008, the life expectancy for residents of the villages was found to be a full decade shorter than the national average, according to the environment ministry.

From Barron's

Life expectancy has also increased, which means retirees will draw benefits for longer.

From The Wall Street Journal