WAIT UP Meaning and
Definition
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Wait up is a colloquial expression that is used to ask someone to slow down or wait for someone else who is falling behind or unable to keep up with the pace. It is typically used when in a group setting or during activities that involve moving together.
The phrase can also be used to politely request someone to delay or pause an activity until a certain condition is met or until someone else arrives. This can be in a social context, such as waiting for a friend to join a gathering, or in a professional setting, when waiting for a colleague to arrive before beginning a meeting or presentation.
The term "wait up" is often used in casual conversations among friends or acquaintances to indicate a desire to remain inclusive and considerate. By asking someone to wait up, it demonstrates a willingness to wait or adjust the pace to accommodate others, promoting a spirit of camaraderie and teamwork.
While mostly spoken, the expression can also be used in written communication, particularly in informal or conversational contexts. The phrase is commonly used in English-speaking countries and has become ingrained in everyday conversations, providing a way to show politeness, empathy, and respect for others' pace or circumstances.
Common Misspellings for WAIT UP
- qait up
- aait up
- eait up
- 3ait up
- 2ait up
- wzit up
- wwit up
- wqit up
- waut up
- wajt up
- wakt up
- waot up
- wa9t up
- wa8t up
- wair up
- waif up
- waig up
- waiy up
- wai6 up
- wai5 up
Etymology of WAIT UP
The phrase "wait up" is an informal expression that means to ask someone to slow down or stop in order to allow another person to catch up. It is derived from the verb "wait" and the adverb "up".
The word "wait" originated from the Old French word "waitier", which meant "to lie in wait" or "to watch". It further developed from the Old North French word "waiter", meaning "to keep watch" or "to guard". The word eventually evolved in Middle English to mean "to stay in place or remain in readiness".
The addition of the word "up" to the phrase "wait" introduces the idea of upward motion or intensity, signifying the importance of the request. It emphasizes the urgency of asking someone to pause or hold on until the other person catches up.
Idioms with the word WAIT UP
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wait up (until sth)
The idiom "wait up (until sth)" means to stay awake or delay going to bed in order to wait for or continue an activity until a specific event or person arrives. It is often used when someone is asked to prolong their wakefulness for a particular purpose.
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wait up (a minute)
The idiom "wait up (a minute)" is used to request someone to slow down or pause momentarily, usually when they are moving ahead or progressing too quickly without considering others. It implies a desire for the person to wait or linger for a brief duration so that the speaker can catch up, keep pace, or address something important.
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wait up
To delay going to bed or leaving in order to wait for someone or something.
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