expecting
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪkˈspɛktɪŋ/
KK: /ɪkˈspɛktɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Referring to a woman or female animal who is pregnant and waiting to give birth.
Example
The expecting mother attended her prenatal classes with excitement.
Conversation
Did you hear that Lisa is expecting?
Yes, I heard! That’s so exciting for her.
I wonder how far along she is in her expecting journey.
I think she’s about six months now, can’t wait to meet the baby!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pregnant
anticipating
awaiting
Antonyms
unpregnant
infertile
barren
verb
Definition
To think that something will happen or that something is true.
Example
She is expecting a package to arrive today.
Tense Forms
Past: expected
Past Participle: expected
Conversation
Are you expecting a package today?
Yes, I am! It should arrive by noon.
I hope you get it on time, then.
Root Explanation
Expecting → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "spectare" (meaning to look). The word "expecting" means looking out for something to happen or anticipating an event.
Memory Tip
Think of 'looking out' ('spectare') for something that is 'coming out' ('ex-') — that's why expecting means to anticipate.
Visually Confused Words
unexpecting
respecting
exciting
exacting
erecting
unexpectingly
unexecuting
pectin