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 ).
were waiting
-
past progressiveof wait.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Annie Guthrie, Nancy’s middle child, and her husband, Tommaso Cioni, were waiting for deputies.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 2, 2026
Cameron, the center’s hospital and rehabilitation manager, said that they were waiting on blood work and toxicology results.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 22, 2026
They were waiting for him to do what, over the years, he had repeatedly done: talk.
From BBC ● Jul. 10, 2026
In March 2026, 48,758 people - across 35,744 asylum applications - were waiting for an initial decision.
From BBC ● Jun. 25, 2026
Her hands were folded in her lap as if she were waiting for something.
From "Firegirl" by Tony Abbott
