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.
Doctors told her if she had waited another day things could have been "quite different".
From BBC ● Sep. 5, 2026
The 29-year-old from Anglesey, who is biologically female, had waited five years from their initial GP referrals and the surgery had been postponed twice already for mental health reasons.
From BBC ● Sep. 1, 2026
Dozens of supporters had waited outside the hospital.
From Barron's ● Aug. 21, 2026
He had waited for this day since March 2025, when he paid $2,162.90 for a pair of seats as a birthday gift for his dad.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 11, 2026
The rest of them had waited outside on the landing, in the dark.
From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill
