v.tr. 1 (often foll. by to + infin., or that + clause) a regard as likely; assume as a future event or occurrence. b (often foll. by of) look for as appropriate or one's due (from a person) (I expect cooperation; expect you to be here; expected better of you). 2 colloq. (often foll. by that + clause) think, suppose (I expect we'll be on time). 3 be shortly to have (a baby) (is expecting twins). be expecting colloq. be pregnant. expectable adj.
[ L exspectare (as EX-(1), spectare look, frequent. of specere see) ]