expectation

noun

ex·​pec·​ta·​tion ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-shən 

ik-

1

: the act or state of expecting : anticipation

in expectation of what would happen

2

a

: something expected

not up to expectations

expectations for an economic recovery

b

: basis for expecting : assurance

they have every expectation of success

c

: prospects of inheritance

—usually used in plural

3

: the state of being expected

4

a

: expectancy sense 2b

b

: expected value

expectational

ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-shnəl

adjective

Synonyms

• anticipation
• contemplation
• expectance
• expectancy
• prospect

Examples of expectation in a Sentence

The company has expectations of making a profit next year.

I saved the files in the expectation that they would be useful in the future.

There is widespread expectation that the strike will be settled soon.

The crowd waited in expectation of her arrival.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, there can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved, and actual results may differ materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. —Miami Herald, 6 June 2024

That would mark a major reversal of the markets’ expectations, which started the year predicting as many as six rate cuts. —Bypaolo Confino, Fortune, 5 June 2024

An experienced team provides leadership and project management to thoughtfully guide the design process and deliver architecture that exceeds expectations. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 June 2024

At Stonehouse Restaurant, the service and food quality exceed expectations — and don't ignore the extensive wine cellar. —Mariah Tyler, Travel + Leisure, 4 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing expectation

• mathematical expectation

Kids Definition

expectation

noun

ex·​pec·​ta·​tion ˌek-ˌspek-ˈtā-shən 

ik-

1

: the act or state of expecting : a looking forward to or waiting for something

2

: chances of good or bad fortune

—usually used in plural

3

: something expected