Definition of expectancynext
as in anticipation
the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence that feeling of optimistic expectancy that fills theatergoers as they wait for the curtain to rise

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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 expectancy Every year, Team USA distributes millions in grants to its individual sport governing bodies, with the biggest chunk distributed based on medal expectancy and future athlete development. Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 19 Feb. 2026 But in a clinical trial, that experience can be a liability as outcomes can be sensitive to expectancy bias. Ian Reardon, STAT, 2 Feb. 2026 Someone genetically predetermined to live 80 years could reach 85 with healthy habits, while unhealthy lifestyle choices can shorten that expectancy to 75. Michal Ruprecht, CNN Money, 29 Jan. 2026 Research on expectancy violations shows that relationships suffer most not when expectations are unmet, but when they’re unspoken. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for expectancy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectancy
Noun
  • His staff and a small pack of journalists had even gathered at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington in anticipation of the trip.
    Jamey Keaten, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026
  • The decline on Wednesday was driven by anticipation that the Federal Reserve will likely raise interest rates this year in an effort to fight inflation.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • The Moon in your 1st House of Identity squares mental Mercury in your 10th House of Career, so personal needs may rub against professional expectations.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 June 2026
  • Suarez also discussed the experience of joining one of baseball’s most storied organizations after departing Philadelphia, then watching as both teams failed to meet expectations to start the year.
    Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectancy. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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