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.
In recent years, sustainability has shifted from a niche concern to a mainstream expectation in the consumer marketplace. Matthew Emma, USA TODAY, 28 Nov. 2024 This discount reflects slower near-term growth expectations. Gurufocus, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024 On the brighter side, October retail sales beat expectations with a 4.8% year-on-year growth, and the unemployment rate ticked lower to 5%, down from 5.1% in September. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 27 Nov. 2024 Your mother weaponizes family loyalty to maintain her emotional abuse, knowing that cultural expectations will paint you as the 'ungrateful child' for setting boundaries. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 27 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near expectation

Cite this Entry

“Expectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expectation. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

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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