Definition of expectancenext
as in anticipation
the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence gave them the painting, with no expectance of anything in return

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 expectance Giannina Altuve posted video of the family celebrating the expectance of their second child on Sunday afternoon. Houston Chronicle, 11 Nov. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectance
Noun
  • As the clock edges toward midnight on October 27, book stores and e-tailers across the globe will be blushing with anticipation.
    Kyle MacNeill, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026
  • There is much anticipation for closing arguments today, and potentially a verdict, in this case that has captured the nation's attention.
    Sumiko Corley, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The industry expectation is that there will be a lockout come December and that the sides won’t be able to reach an agreement until the spring at the earliest.
    Evan Drellich, New York Times, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Consequently, markets have already trimmed their Fed rate hike expectations.
    , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • With women’s life average expectancy at 82 years, and many living well into their 90s, some women may experience 30 years of living in retirement independently.
    Angie O’Leary, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Just a funny feeling — nervousness, expectancy, and wondering what was going to happen next.
    Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectance. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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