anticipatory

adjective

an-ˈti-sə-pə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce anticipatory (audio)
Definition of anticipatorynext
as in watchful
having or showing signs of eagerly awaiting something couldn't control his anticipatory excitement on Christmas morning

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of anticipatory Bloody conflicts over territory, mates, and more are common in social animals, and several species have their own anticipatory behaviors to prepare when a fight looks imminent. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 16 July 2026 Ultimately, anticipatory anxiety should be a catalyst for becoming more adaptable and intentional in developing valuable human qualities, regardless of technological advancements. — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 Now, researchers have discovered that this anticipatory activation is powered by pockets of glycogen in POMC neurons. — Isabella Backman, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2026 The younger 10-month-old infants showed no evidence of anticipatory predictions in either condition. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for anticipatory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for anticipatory
  1. watchful
  2. expectant
  3. enthusiastic
  4. eager
  5. anxious
Adjective
  • Particularly under the watchful, critical gaze of millions of baseball fans.
    — Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 28 July 2026
  • Key Takeaways Active surveillance, or watchful waiting, is often recommended for people with slow-growing CLL who do not have symptoms.
    — Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 23 July 2026
Definition of watchful
Adjective
  • Like most expectant parents, Briana Faucette heard the typical warnings about sleepless nights.
    — Roni Robbins, AJC.com, 20 July 2026
  • Now, a ritual for expectant parents who are prepping for a momentous life change and want to squeeze in a little rest, relaxation, and quiet time before the baby comes and shakes things up!
    — Kara Nesvig, Parents, 15 July 2026
Definition of expectant
Adjective
  • Allen was enthusiastic about contributing on special teams when asked about it earlier in the week.
    — Jesse Newell, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026
  • However, there is such a thing as being overly enthusiastic, so check yourself if need be.
    — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of enthusiastic
Adjective
  • Now, the 34-year-old utilityman is grateful to be back and eager to build on his four-for-four start over two games.
    — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026
  • As the Steam Deck slowly marches toward its fifth birthday next February, owners are likely eager for a way to extend its life rather than investing in expensive high-end competition.
    — Kyle Orland, ArsTechnica, 29 July 2026
Definition of eager
Adjective
  • The advice comes as pet parents become increasingly anxious about leaving their furry family members behind.
    — Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • All available polling data indicates that the public mood in Russia is growing more uncertain and anxious.
    — Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 31 July 2026
Definition of anxious

Browse Nearby Words

anticipations
anticipatory
anticlimactic
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Cite this Entry

“Anticipatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/anticipatory. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on anticipatory

Nglish: Translation of anticipatory for Spanish Speakers

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