await

UK: əˈweɪt | US: əˈweɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to wait for or expect something or someone

  2. vt. to be in store for; to lie in wait for

Structure
a <to, toward (prefix)>wait <to remain in expectation (root)>
Etymology

The word "await" originates from Middle English awaiten, derived from Old North French awaitier ("to watch, guard, lie in wait"). It combines the prefix a- (a reduced form of Old English on- or at-, meaning "to" or "toward") with the root wait (from Old French waitier, meaning "to watch or expect"). The term evolved to emphasize active expectation or readiness for an event, retaining its core sense of anticipation.

Examples
  1. She decided to await further instructions before proceeding.

  2. A warm welcome awaits you at the hotel.

  3. The team anxiously awaited the judge’s decision.

  4. He stood by the door, silently awaiting her arrival.

  5. Many challenges await us in the coming year.