Definitions

expectant

[ik-spek-tuhnt] / ɪkˈspɛk tənt /

ADJECTIVE

anticipating

Synonyms

WEAK

alert anticipative anxious apprehensive awaiting breathless eager expecting hopeful hoping in suspense looking for on edge on tenterhooks prepared raring ready vigilant waiting waiting on watchful with bated breath

ADJECTIVE

preparing to give birth

Synonyms

WEAK

enceinte expecting gravid parturient pregnant with child

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Babylist, a company that helps expectant parents build gift registries, hired Jill Cress as its first chief marketing officer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

It branched into healthcare several years ago by acquiring SourceMD, a maker of breast pumps that are frequently covered by insurance plans, and Expectful, a health and wellness media company for new and expectant parents.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

Ammar al-Buhaisi, who lives in Deir al-Balah, is struggling to get enough food, let alone new clothes for his children -- and has been avoiding their expectant questions.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

Essential supplies will be delivered to expectant families in some of the most deprived areas of Wales from Monday.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026

Jane Eyre, who had been an ardent, expectant woman—almost a bride, was a cold, solitary girl again: her life was pale; her prospects were desolate.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

Vocabulary lists containing expectant

The Lemonade War

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Amina's Voice

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Salt to the Sea

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