Definition of the word expectant

The word "expectant" originates from the Old French word "esperant" meaning "hopeful" or "confident." This word developed from the Latin noun "expectatio" which translates to "waiting for" or "anticipation." The Latin word, in turn, came from the verb "exspectare," meaning "to look for" or "to wait for." In English, the word "expectant" first appeared in the early 15th century with its original meaning closely adhering to the Latin definition. It meant "anticipating" something or "looking forward to" it. The word's literal usage continued to grow as it became commonly associated with pregnancy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Journal articles referenced women's "expectant condition," "expectant mothers," or simply "expectants." In modern times, the word "expectant" continues to convey a sense of anticipation and hopefulness. It is often used to describe a person who is anticipating a particular event, such as an expecting parent who is looking forward to the birth of a child, or an individual who is anticipating a positive outcome in any given future circumstance. Additionally, it is still used to describe pregnant women as they await the arrival of their baby.