long-awaited
UK: /ˌlɒŋ əˈweɪtɪd/ | US: /ˌlɔːŋ əˈweɪtɪd/
adj. highly anticipated or expected for a long time
The word combines "long" (Old English lang, meaning extended duration) with "await" (Old French awaitier, from a- + waitier, meaning to watch or expect). The suffix "-ed" forms the past participle, indicating a state of having been anticipated. The compound emerged in English to describe something eagerly expected over a prolonged period, reflecting a logical blend of temporal and emotional emphasis.
The long-awaited sequel to the novel finally released this year.
Fans cheered as the long-awaited concert tickets went on sale.
The long-awaited rain brought relief to the drought-stricken region.
Her long-awaited promotion was celebrated by the entire team.
The tech company unveiled its long-awaited flagship product at the conference.