stage wait

American  

noun

Theater.

1. an unintentional pause during a performance, usually caused by a performer's or stagehand's missing a cue.

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Etymology

Origin of stage wait

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

stage wait

Then there's a stage wait for three or four minutes before the fish is brought in, Cyril paddin' around ponderous with the plates.

From Wilt Thou Torchy by Ford, Sewell

An awkward stage wait followed, which lasted until John was seen crossing the deck, when there were more cheers, and General Poineau, resuming his pince-nez, brought out the address of welcome again.

From The Prince and Betty by Wodehouse, P. G. (Pelham Grenville)

His reluctance was merely a dissimulation, a stage wait for heightened dramatic effect.

From Never-Fail Blake by Stringer, Arthur

After that there was what is known in theatrical circles as a "stage wait."

From Number Seventeen by Tracy, Louis

“A stage wait, in fact,” put in Clancy, sarcastically.

From The Bartlett Mystery by Tracy, Louis