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 ).
have waited
-
present perfectof wait.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The media blitz shocked some at City Hall, who believed Crowley should have waited until the emergency was over before publicly assigning blame.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 23, 2026
"It feels overwhelming and incredibly exciting - I feel as though I have waited all my life for something like this to happen to me," she said.
From BBC ● Jun. 12, 2026
Not only was the winning streak alive—the championship that the Knicks have waited 53 years for now seemed within their grasp.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 6, 2026
“Likewise, younger parents may have waited longer to open savings accounts for their children, meaning there’s some catch-up at play.”
From MarketWatch ● May 29, 2026
“As a matter of fact I don’t see how a human man could have waited so long.”
From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck
