Definition of expectancenext
as in anticipation
the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence gave them the painting, with no expectance of anything in return

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of expectance Giannina Altuve posted video of the family celebrating the expectance of their second child on Sunday afternoon. Houston Chronicle, 11 Nov. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expectance
Noun
  • Even so, the mood on the polar ship had been pure anticipation.
    Suman Naishadham, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026
  • The result has been anticipation among both customers and employees, who regularly debate which monthly drop has been the best.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 10 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Yet the expectation is not to have every player at peak condition on the opening day of a league season, and very rarely do outfield players play the full 90 minutes in any conventional friendly.
    George Edwards, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The Virgo Moon moves through your 7th House of Partnership, bringing attention to agreements, expectations, and the balance between your needs and someone else’s.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Just a funny feeling — nervousness, expectancy, and wondering what was going to happen next.
    Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026
  • Have no expectations, but rather abundant expectancy.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expectance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expectance. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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