wait
verb (used without object)
to remain inactive or in a state of repose, as until something expected happens (often followed by for, till, oruntil ).
had waited
-
past perfectof wait.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It marked the official start of a weekslong celebration that New York had waited half a century to unleash.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 14, 2026
The jury voted unanimously to throw out the case, finding that the timeframe to bring his claims expired because Musk had waited too long to file his 2024 lawsuit.
From BBC ● May 20, 2026
Her family had waited in agony for a month, praying that even a small part of her body would be recovered so they could hold a proper burial.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 6, 2026
Social Security would have paid out $28,000 more than if I had waited.
From MarketWatch ● May 4, 2026
Then there were swollen hearts among Sorve’s kemmering-sons, all strong men in their prime, who had waited long for lordship.
From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin
