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
  • Less than a month out, things are pretty settled, and a kind of nervous anticipation has taken hold.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 16 July 2026
  • While anticipation has remained high, the film has also faced online criticism in recent months.
    Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026
Noun
  • Galleries and private dealers, by contrast, often had greater difficulty adjusting pricing expectations.
    Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 17 July 2026
  • The company on Thursday posted Q2 results in line with Wall Street expectations, but Q3 revenue guidance was below expectations.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 17 July 2026
Noun
  • Just a funny feeling — nervousness, expectancy, and wondering what was going to happen next.
    Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026
  • Have no expectations, but rather abundant expectancy.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectance. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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