The meaning of EXPECT is to consider probable or certain. How to use expect in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Expect.

expected adjective [before noun] (REQUIRED) believed to be something that should happen or be done:

EXPECT definition: to look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of. See examples of expect used in a sentence.

To expect is to look forward to the likely occurrence or appearance of someone or something: "We should not expect something for nothing—but we all do and call it Hope" (Edgar W. Howe).

Something expected is likely to happen: it's probable. During winter, snow is expected.

If something is expected, it is believed that it will happen or arrive. The idea was to raise funds ahead of an expected fall in property prices. The expected arrival of 200 freshmen in August suggests that …

Definition of expected adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Nov 4, 2025 · Adjective expected (comparative more expected, superlative most expected) Anticipated; thought to be about to arrive or occur. The expected storm never arrived.

Expect, anticipate, hope, await all imply looking to some future event.

The word 'expected' originates from the Latin word 'expectare', which means 'to await'. Over time, the meaning of 'expected' has evolved to include notions of anticipation, assumption, and predictability.