Langimage
English

waiting

|wait/ing|

B1

/ˈweɪtɪŋ/

(wait)

pause or delay

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNoun
waitwaitswaitedwaitedwaitingwaits
Etymology
Etymology Information

'waiting' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wæcian,' where 'wæc-' meant 'to be awake.'

Historical Evolution

'wæcian' transformed into the Middle English word 'waiten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'wait.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to be awake or watchful,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to stay in place or delay action.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the action of staying where one is or delaying action until a particular time or event.

The waiting was unbearable.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

present participle of 'wait'.

She is waiting for the bus.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39