Expectative

/ɪkˈspɛktətɪv/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or showing expectation; characterized by waiting for or anticipating something.

Etymology

From expect plus the suffix -ative (having the quality of, tending toward). This is a rare formation, mostly appearing in older philosophical and theological texts from medieval times onward.

Kelly Says

Medieval theologians loved 'expectative'—they used it to describe the hope of resurrection or salvation. It's almost entirely replaced by 'expectant' in modern English, making it an antique word that scholars still recognize.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.