expectant
ik-SPEK-tuhnt
/ɪkˈspektənt/
Having or showing an excited feeling that something good is about to happen, especially expecting the birth of a child.
Combines hopeful anticipation with specific medical or social status regarding imminent parenthood.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'ex-' (out) and 'spectare' (to look). Historically, it referred to looking outward in anticipation of an arrival, which eventually shifted toward the eager anticipation of a newborn child.
Word relationships
- anticipating: Focuses on looking forward to an event, without the specific association with pregnancy.
- pregnant: A direct physiological status, whereas expectant highlights psychological anticipation or parental status.
- unexpectant: Not awaiting anything in particular.
- indifferent: Lacking excitement or interest in what is about to happen.
Commonly confused with
- expecting: 'Expecting' is often used as a verb phrase ('she is expecting'), while 'expectant' is an adjective modifying nouns ('expectant mother').
Word family
- expectantly (adverb): In a manner showing excitement about something that is going to happen.
- expectancy (noun): The state of hoping or thinking that something good will happen.
Collocations
- expectant mother
- expectant parents
- expectant crowd
- expectant pause
Idioms & expressions
- in an expectant mood
Example sentences
- "The expectant parents smiled broadly as guests unloaded colorful presents onto the table." Family gathering
- "There was an expectant silence in the room before the doctor spoke." Literature
Memory hook
Think of 'EXPECTing ANY day now' — an expectant parent is eagerly watching the calendar. Looking forward with open eyes.
When not to use
Do not use to describe general waiting for routine events like a delayed bus; use 'waiting' instead.
Fun facts
- In the 19th century, referring directly to pregnancy in polite conversation was taboo, making 'expectant' a popular courtly euphemism.
Explore more words
forthcoming, animated, enthusiastic, imminent, suspense, prospect
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