wait up

British  

verb

1. to delay going to bed in order to await some event

2. informal to halt and pause in order that another person may catch up

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wait up Idioms  

1. Postpone going to bed in anticipation of someone or something, as in My parents always wait up until I get home, no matter how late it is . [Mid-1800s]

2. Stop or pause so that another can catch up, as in Let's wait up for the stragglers , or Don't walk so fast; wait up for me . [ Colloquial ]

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Example Sentences

However, they may have to wait up to a year for their case to be heard.

From BBC

Under the new plans, some migrants could have to wait up to 20 years before they can settle permanently in the UK and the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain will be extended from five to 10 years.

From BBC

"Forcing dedicated care workers to wait up to 15 years for settlement, and tying their future to restrictive criteria, will deter much-needed talent from staying in Scotland."

From BBC

“Let that keep you busy for a while, eh? See you later, dear. Don’t wait up.”

From Literature

On his way out the door the Soviet leader told his son, “Don’t wait up for me.”

From Literature