expectation

noun

ex·​pec·​ta·​tion ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce expectation (audio)
ik-
1
: the act or state of expecting : anticipation
in expectation of what would happen
2
a
: something expected
not up to expectations
expectations for an economic recovery
b
: basis for expecting : assurance
they have every expectation of success
c
: prospects of inheritance
usually used in plural
3
: the state of being expected
4
expectational adjective

Examples of expectation in a Sentence

The company has expectations of making a profit next year. I saved the files in the expectation that they would be useful in the future. There is widespread expectation that the strike will be settled soon. The crowd waited in expectation of her arrival.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The company boasted results that pointed to Chili’s consistent traffic and sales performance, and also guided its fiscal year 2026 earnings per share estimates slightly above analysts’ expectations, according to FactSet. Pia Singh, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2025 How toxic workplaces emerge When managers fail to set clear expectations, communicate openly and model respectful behavior, dysfunction spreads and a toxic workplace is born. Alora Bopray, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025 Bengals set clear expectations for 2025 season. Randy Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Sep. 2025 Businesses are navigating a volatile economy, shifting customer expectations and relentless innovation—especially in tech. Agni Ghosh, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expectation

Word History

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expectation was in 1540

Cite this Entry

“Expectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expectation. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

expectation

noun
ex·​pec·​ta·​tion ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce expectation (audio)
ik-
1
: the act or state of expecting : a looking forward to or waiting for something
2
: chances of good or bad fortune
usually used in plural
3
: something expected

More from Merriam-Webster on expectation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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