expectancy

noun

ik-ˈspek-tən(t)-sē How to pronounce expectancy (audio)
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

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 expectancy Have no expectations, but rather abundant expectancy. — Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026 On the website, officials gave a blanket four hour wait expectancy, and said passengers should plan accordingly. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026 Shifts in win expectancy by count, rather than in OPS, are what’s actually meaningful. — Tim Britton, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for expectancy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectancy
  1. anticipation
  2. expectation
Noun
  • Think about us on the initial roller coaster hill at this point, with anticipation building for the Friday 'fall'.
    — Ron Smiley, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The scientist’s anticipation of a breakthrough builds alongside the music, giving the familiar anthem a purpose beyond showing off the singer’s voice.
    — Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of anticipation
Noun
  • Approaching life with positive expectations, a get-up-and-go attitude, and eagerness is related to many good things in life.
    — Joan M. Cook, Time, 17 Oct. 2026
  • The company also issued Q3 revenue guidance below analyst expectations.
    — Todd Spangler, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of expectation

Browse Nearby Words

expectancies
expectancy
expectant
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Cite this Entry

“Expectancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectancy. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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