Synonyms of wait

wait 1 of 2

verb

ˈwāt 

as in to stay

to remain in place in readiness or expectation of something

please wait here, and we'll seat you shortly

Synonyms & Similar Words

• stay
• linger
• await
• remain
• bide
• hold on
• sit tight
• expect
• hold one's breath
• bide one's time
• hang around
• stick around
• cool one's heels
• stand by
• tarry
• anticipate
• watch (for)

wait

2 of 2

noun

as in delay

an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business

there was a long wait for the manager to come and help us

Synonyms & Similar Words

• delay
• pause
• holdup
• detention
• postponement
• setback
• hesitation
• deferral
• deferment
• holding pattern
• lag
• respite
• detainment
• holdback
• slowdown
• reprieve
• foot-dragging

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• rush
• haste
• dispatch
• promptness
• promptitude

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of wait

Verb

For many families still waiting to move in, this has sparked hope. — Kamala Thiagarajan, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026

Paramedics are often able to perform duties on-site or in the back of an ambulance that elsewise would have to wait until a patient gets to a hospital emergency room. — Mike Enright, Hartford Courant, 1 Aug. 2026

Noun

Now the wait is on for Leon County Judge David Frank to decide whether to toss a series of lawsuits or order the state’s attorney general to rewrite what voters will read. — Jim Turner, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

There's often a line forming at Tony's even before opening, with waits for a table typically lasting at least an hour. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 July 2026

Phrases Containing wait

• wait on
• wait upon