Top 50 Slang For Wait – Meaning & Usage

Waiting can be a drag, but fear not! We’ve got your back with a list of the most hip and trendy slang terms to use while biding your time. From “clock-watching” to “twiddling thumbs,” we’ve got you covered with the coolest ways to express that oh-so-relatable feeling of waiting. So sit tight, relax, and get ready to spice up your waiting game with our ultimate list of slang for wait!

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1. Chill

To remain calm and patient while waiting for something.

For example, “Just chill, the bus will be here soon.”
A friend might say, “Chill out, the food will be ready in a few minutes.”
Someone might advise, “Chill and enjoy the moment, the show will start shortly.”

2. Hang tight

To wait patiently and not move or leave a specific location.

For instance, “Hang tight, I’ll be right back with your order.”
A parent might tell their child, “Hang tight, we’ll leave for the park in a few minutes.”
A coworker might say, “Hang tight, the meeting will start in a moment.”

3. Hold your horses

An expression used to tell someone to be patient and wait for a short period of time.

For example, “Hold your horses, the doctor will see you soon.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Hold your horses, we’re not done with the lesson yet.”
A friend might say, “Hold your horses, I need to finish this task before we can go.”

4. Sit tight

To stay in one place and not move while waiting for something to happen.

For instance, “Sit tight, the movie will start shortly.”
A flight attendant might announce, “Sit tight and fasten your seatbelts, we will be landing soon.”
A parent might tell their child, “Sit tight, we’ll be leaving for the party in a few minutes.”

5. Cool your jets

To relax and be patient while waiting for something.

For example, “Cool your jets, the results will be announced soon.”
A coach might tell their team, “Cool your jets, the game will resume after the timeout.”
A supervisor might say, “Cool your jets and wait for further instructions.”

6. Kick back

This phrase means to take it easy and wait for something to happen. It implies a relaxed and patient attitude towards waiting.

For example, if someone asks when dinner will be ready, you might say, “Just kick back and enjoy the conversation while it cooks.”
In a situation where someone is rushing you, you could respond with, “Hey, no need to rush. Let’s kick back and wait for the right moment.”
If a friend is getting impatient while waiting for a movie to start, you could say, “Come on, let’s kick back and enjoy the previews.”

7. Keep your shirt on

This expression is used to tell someone to remain calm and patient while waiting for something.

For instance, if someone is getting anxious about a delayed flight, you might say, “Hey, keep your shirt on. We’ll get there eventually.”
If a coworker is getting frustrated with a slow computer, you could say, “Take a deep breath and keep your shirt on. IT will fix it soon.”
If someone is getting restless while waiting in line, you might say, “Relax, keep your shirt on. We’ll be moving soon.”

8. Hold the phone

This phrase is used to ask someone to pause or wait for a moment before proceeding with a conversation or action.

For example, if someone is about to make a decision without considering all the facts, you might say, “Hold the phone! Have you thought about the consequences?”
In a situation where someone is rushing to leave the house, you could say, “Hold the phone! Did you grab your keys?”
If someone is interrupting you while you’re speaking, you might say, “Hold the phone! Let me finish my thought.”

9. Hold on a sec

This expression is used to ask someone to wait for a short period of time, typically a few seconds.

For instance, if someone asks you a question and you need a moment to think, you might say, “Hold on a sec, let me gather my thoughts.”
In a situation where someone is about to leave without their belongings, you could say, “Hold on a sec, you forgot your phone.”
If someone is rushing you while you’re getting ready, you might say, “Hold on a sec, I just need to grab my jacket.”

10. Stay put

This phrase is used to tell someone to stay in their current location and not move or go anywhere.

For example, if someone is about to leave a room while you go get something, you might say, “Stay put, I’ll be right back.”
In a situation where someone is trying to find you in a crowded place, you could say, “Stay put, I’ll come find you.”
If someone is getting restless while waiting for a friend, you might say, “Stay put, they’ll be here soon.”

11. Cool your heels

This phrase means to wait calmly and patiently. It is often used in situations where someone is asked to wait for something.

For example, if you’re waiting for your turn at the doctor’s office, someone might tell you to “cool your heels.”
In a restaurant, a host might say, “We’re a bit busy at the moment, so please cool your heels and we’ll seat you shortly.”
A parent might say to their child, “You’ll have to cool your heels for a few more minutes until we’re ready to leave.”

12. Sit on your hands

This phrase means to refrain from taking action or doing anything while waiting. It implies that someone should be patient and not interfere or try to rush a situation.

For instance, if you’re waiting for someone to make a decision, you might be told to “sit on your hands” and let them take their time.
In a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s sit on our hands for now and see how the situation unfolds before making any hasty decisions.”
A teacher might tell their students, “While I’m speaking, please sit on your hands and wait for your turn to participate.”

13. Watch the clock

This phrase means to keep an eye on the clock or watch in order to track the passing of time while waiting for something.

For example, if you have an appointment and you’re waiting, you might say, “I’m just watching the clock until my turn.”
In a waiting room, someone might comment, “Everyone is watching the clock, hoping their wait will be over soon.”
A person waiting for a bus might say, “I’m watching the clock so I don’t miss my ride.”

14. Keep your powder dry

This phrase originally referred to keeping gunpowder dry and ready for use, but it has evolved to mean being prepared and ready for any situation while waiting.

For instance, if you’re waiting for an important phone call, someone might say, “Keep your powder dry in case they call.”
In a business meeting, someone might advise, “Keep your powder dry and be ready to present your ideas when the opportunity arises.”
A coach might tell their team, “Keep your powder dry and stay focused while waiting for the perfect moment to make a move.”

15. Keep a weather eye

This phrase means to be watchful and vigilant while waiting. It suggests being aware of any changes or developments that may occur.

For example, if you’re waiting for a friend in a crowded area, someone might say, “Keep a weather eye for them in case they get lost.”
In a game of chess, a player might say, “I’ll keep a weather eye on my opponent’s moves while I wait for the right opportunity to strike.”
A security guard might instruct their colleagues, “Keep a weather eye on the surroundings and report any suspicious activity while we wait for backup.”

16. Bide your time

This phrase means to wait calmly and patiently for the right moment to take action. It suggests that one should exercise patience and not rush into something.

For example, if someone is planning a surprise party, they might say, “I’ll bide my time and wait for the perfect moment to reveal the surprise.”
In a competitive situation, a person might say, “I’ll bide my time and wait for my opponent to make a mistake before making my move.”
If someone is waiting for a promotion at work, they might say, “I’ll bide my time and continue to work hard until the opportunity arises.”

17. Hold your water

This phrase is a colloquial way of telling someone to be patient and wait. It suggests that one should control their impatience or excitement and wait for the appropriate time.

For instance, if someone is eager to leave for a trip but there’s a delay, you might say, “Hold your water, we’ll leave as soon as we can.”
In a situation where someone is eager for news, you might say, “Hold your water, the results will be announced soon.”
If someone is impatiently waiting for a package to arrive, you might say, “Hold your water, it will be here before you know it.”

18. Keep your cool

This phrase means to stay calm and composed, especially in a stressful or frustrating situation. It suggests that one should not let their emotions get the best of them and maintain a level-headed approach.

For example, if someone is dealing with a difficult customer, you might say, “Just keep your cool and try to find a solution.”
In a heated argument, you might advise someone, “Try to keep your cool and listen to the other person’s perspective.”
If someone is waiting for important news, you might say, “Keep your cool, it will come when it’s ready.”

19. Bite your nails

This phrase refers to the act of biting one’s nails as a sign of anxiety or nervousness while waiting for something. It suggests that one is feeling anxious or impatient during the waiting period.

For instance, if someone is waiting for the results of a job interview, you might say, “Don’t bite your nails, you did your best and now you just have to wait.”
In a situation where someone is waiting for a medical test result, you might say, “Try not to bite your nails, stressing won’t change the outcome.”
If someone is waiting for a loved one to arrive, you might say, “Don’t bite your nails, they’ll be here soon.”

20. Kick your heels

This phrase means to wait with impatience or frustration, often while being idle or having nothing to do. It suggests that one is waiting in a bored or restless manner.

For example, if someone is waiting for a delayed flight at the airport, you might say, “We’re just kicking our heels until the plane arrives.”
In a situation where someone is waiting for a long meeting to start, you might say, “We’re just kicking our heels until the boss arrives.”
If someone is waiting for a friend who is running late, you might say, “We’re just kicking our heels until they show up.”

21. Keep your pants on

This phrase is used to tell someone to remain calm and wait without becoming impatient or agitated. It implies that the person should not rush or take action before the appropriate time.

For example, if someone is eagerly waiting for a package to arrive, you might say, “Just keep your pants on, it will be here soon.”
In a situation where someone is getting frustrated, you could say, “Take a deep breath and keep your pants on, we’ll figure it out.”
If someone is anxious about the outcome of a sports game, you might say, “Don’t worry, just keep your pants on and enjoy the game.”

22. Stand by

This phrase is used to indicate that someone should be ready for something or prepared to take action. It implies that the person should remain in a state of readiness and be available for further instructions or developments.

For instance, if someone is waiting for a phone call, you might say, “Just stand by, they will call you soon.”
In a military context, a commander might say, “Stand by for further orders.”
If someone is waiting for a friend to pick them up, you could say, “Stand by, they are on their way.”

23. Be on ice

This phrase is used to describe a situation where something or someone is temporarily put on hold or delayed. It implies that the person or thing is not currently active or in progress, but will resume or proceed at a later time.

For example, if a project is delayed, you might say, “The project is on ice until we receive further instructions.”
In a discussion about a postponed event, someone might say, “The concert is on ice due to bad weather.”
If someone is waiting for a decision to be made, you could say, “The final verdict is on ice until the judge reviews all the evidence.”

24. Keep a weather eye out

This phrase is used to advise someone to remain vigilant and observant in order to notice any changes or developments. It implies that the person should keep a close watch and be prepared to react or take action if necessary.

For instance, if someone is waiting for a specific person to arrive, you might say, “Keep a weather eye out for them.”
In a situation where there might be potential danger, you could say, “Keep a weather eye out for any suspicious activity.”
If someone is searching for a specific item, you might say, “Keep a weather eye out, it might be hidden somewhere.”

25. Keep your ear to the ground

This phrase is used to encourage someone to stay informed or aware of the latest information or developments. It implies that the person should pay attention and listen carefully for any news or updates.

For example, if someone is waiting for news about a job opportunity, you might say, “Keep your ear to the ground, they will let you know soon.”
In a discussion about current events, someone might say, “It’s important to keep your ear to the ground and stay informed.”
If someone is waiting for a decision to be made, you could say, “Keep your ear to the ground, the announcement will be made shortly.”

26. Keep your eyes peeled

This phrase means to be vigilant or watchful, usually in anticipation of something happening. It implies that one should keep their eyes open and pay attention to their surroundings.

For example, “We’re going on a hike, so keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife.”
In a crime novel, a detective might say, “Keep your eyes peeled for any suspicious activity.”
A parent might tell their child, “Keep your eyes peeled for the ice cream truck.”

27. Keep your wits about you

This phrase means to remain calm and mentally alert in a challenging or uncertain situation. It suggests that one should stay focused and think clearly.

For instance, “When you’re walking alone at night, it’s important to keep your wits about you.”
In a high-pressure job interview, a candidate might remind themselves, “Keep your wits about you and answer each question thoughtfully.”
A coach might tell their team before a game, “Stay focused and keep your wits about you, no matter what happens.”

28. Keep your fingers crossed

This phrase is a gesture of wishing for good luck or a favorable outcome. It involves crossing one’s fingers, typically behind their back, as a way to express hope or anticipation.

For example, “I have a job interview tomorrow, so keep your fingers crossed for me!”
A student might say, “Keep your fingers crossed that we have a snow day tomorrow.”
A person waiting for exam results might tell their friend, “I’m nervous, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed for good news.”

29. Keep your options open

This phrase means to avoid making a final decision or commitment, allowing for different possibilities or alternatives. It suggests that one should not limit themselves and remain open to different opportunities.

For instance, “I’m not sure which college to attend, so I’m keeping my options open.”
In a job search, a person might say, “I’m exploring different industries and keeping my options open.”
A friend might advise another, “Don’t rush into a relationship. Keep your options open and see what’s out there.”

30. Keep calm and carry on

This phrase originated from a motivational poster during World War II and has since become a popular saying. It encourages people to remain calm and carry on with their tasks or responsibilities, even in challenging or stressful situations.

For example, “During a crisis, it’s important to keep calm and carry on.”
A teacher might tell their students before a test, “Take a deep breath, keep calm, and carry on.”
A manager might remind their team during a busy period, “We have a lot of work to do, so let’s keep calm and carry on.”

31. Pause

To pause means to temporarily stop or wait for a short period of time before continuing.

For example, “Let’s pause for a moment and think about our next move.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “Pause, I need to grab my phone.”
When playing a video game, a player might say, “Pause the game, I need to take a break.”

32. Be patient

To be patient means to stay calm and wait without becoming frustrated or irritated.

For instance, a parent might tell their child, “Be patient, we’ll be there soon.”
In a long line, someone might say, “I need to be patient and wait my turn.”
When waiting for a response, a person might remind themselves, “I just need to be patient and give them time to reply.”

33. Take a breather

To take a breather means to take a short break or rest to relax and recharge.

For example, after a long day of work, someone might say, “I need to take a breather before starting my evening activities.”
During a workout, a person might say, “Let’s take a breather and hydrate before continuing.”
When feeling overwhelmed, someone might remind themselves, “I should take a breather and clear my mind before tackling this task.”

34. Don’t rush

To not rush means to take your time and not hurry or do something too quickly.

For instance, when completing a task, someone might say, “Don’t rush, take your time and do it right.”
In a group setting, a person might remind others, “Let’s not rush, we want to make sure everyone understands.”
When giving directions, someone might say, “Don’t rush, take a moment to plan your route.”

35. Hold up

To hold up means to wait a moment or pause before proceeding.

For example, if someone is about to leave and realizes they forgot something, they might say, “Hold up, I need to grab my keys.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “Hold up, let me finish my thought.”
When encountering an obstacle, a person might say, “Hold up, let’s figure out a solution before moving forward.”

36. Be cool

This phrase is used to tell someone to remain calm and composed while waiting for something.

For example, if someone is anxious about a job interview, you might say, “Just be cool and remember to breathe.”
In a stressful situation, a friend might reassure you by saying, “Don’t worry, everything will work out. Just be cool.”
If someone is getting impatient while waiting for a table at a restaurant, you could say, “Relax and be cool, our turn will come soon.”

37. Catch your breath

This phrase is used to suggest taking a short break or pause to recover and regain energy.

For instance, after running to catch a bus, you might say, “Let’s catch our breath before we continue.”
If someone is overwhelmed with work, a colleague might advise, “Take a few minutes to catch your breath and then get back to it.”
If you’re feeling exhausted after a long day, a friend might suggest, “Go sit down and catch your breath for a bit.”

38. Be at ease

This phrase is used to encourage someone to relax and not worry or be anxious while waiting.

For example, if someone is nervous about an upcoming presentation, you might say, “Just be at ease and remember that you’ve prepared well.”
When waiting for important news, a parent might comfort their child by saying, “There’s nothing you can do now except be at ease and hope for the best.”
If someone is feeling stressed while waiting for a medical test result, a doctor might say, “Try to be at ease and trust that we will provide you with the information as soon as possible.”

39. Hang on

This phrase is used to ask someone to wait or hold on for a short period of time.

For instance, if you’re on the phone and need to check something, you might say, “Hang on, let me find that information for you.”
When someone is about to leave the room and you have a question, you could say, “Hang on, I have something to ask you.”
If you’re in a hurry and need to quickly finish a task before helping someone, you might say, “Hang on, I just need a few more minutes.”

40. Stay on hold

This phrase is used to ask someone to continue waiting on the phone line for assistance or to speak to someone.

For example, when calling customer service, you might hear a recorded message saying, “Please stay on hold, your call is important to us.”
If a receptionist is busy and needs to transfer your call to another department, they might say, “Please stay on hold while I connect you.”
When speaking to a representative and they need to check something, they might ask you to “Stay on hold for a moment while I verify that information.”

41. Keep it on ice

This phrase means to temporarily put something on hold or delay it for a later time. It implies that the action or decision will be kept in a state of suspension until further notice.

For example, “We’ll keep it on ice until we receive more information.”
In a business context, someone might say, “Let’s keep the project on ice until the market conditions improve.”
A friend might suggest, “Why don’t you keep that idea on ice for now and revisit it later?”

42. Take a rain check

This expression is used to politely decline an invitation or offer, with the intention of accepting it at a later time.

For instance, if someone invites you to a party but you’re unable to attend, you might say, “Can I take a rain check?”
In a casual conversation, someone might say, “I can’t make it to lunch today, but can I take a rain check?”
A friend might suggest, “Let’s take a rain check on going to the movies tonight and do it another time.”

43. Keep it on the back burner

This phrase means to delay or postpone something, typically a task or decision, and focus on more immediate or pressing matters.

For example, “Let’s keep that project on the back burner for now and prioritize other tasks.”
In a work setting, someone might say, “We’ll keep the proposal on the back burner until we have more information.”
A friend might suggest, “Why don’t we keep our travel plans on the back burner until we can save more money?”

44. Be on standby

This phrase means to be prepared and ready to take action or provide assistance if needed. It implies being in a state of readiness and waiting for further instructions or developments.

For instance, in a military context, someone might be on standby for a mission or operation.
In a hospital setting, a doctor might be on standby for a critical surgery.
A friend might say, “I’ll be on standby in case you need any help with moving.”

45. Be in a holding pattern

This phrase refers to being in a state of temporary suspension or delay, often used in aviation to describe when an aircraft is circling in the air waiting for clearance to land.

For example, “Due to heavy air traffic, our flight is currently in a holding pattern.”
In a work context, someone might say, “We’re in a holding pattern until we receive approval from the higher-ups.”
A friend might suggest, “Let’s put our plans in a holding pattern until we have more information.”

46. Keep it in the queue

This phrase means to wait patiently for your turn or for something to happen. It is often used in situations where there is a line or a sequence of events.

For example, if you’re waiting in line at a coffee shop and someone tries to cut in front of you, you might say, “Excuse me, please keep it in the queue.”
In a meeting, if someone interrupts and jumps ahead to a different topic, you might say, “Let’s keep it in the queue and finish discussing the current issue.”
If someone is eager to share their ideas in a brainstorming session, you might say, “We’ll get to your ideas, just keep it in the queue for now.”

47. Keep it in the pipeline

This phrase means to wait for future action or to wait for something to be processed or completed. It is often used in business or project management contexts.

For instance, if you submit a proposal to your boss and they ask for updates, you might say, “I’ll keep it in the pipeline and let you know as soon as there are any developments.”
In a software development team, if a feature request is made but it’s not a priority, someone might say, “We’ll keep it in the pipeline and consider it for future releases.”
If someone suggests an idea during a meeting but it needs further discussion, you might say, “Let’s keep it in the pipeline and revisit it during our next meeting.”

48. Keep it on the shelf

This phrase means to wait or postpone something for later use or consideration. It is often used when there is a need to delay a decision or action.

For example, if you receive a gift that you’re not sure if you want to keep, you might say, “I’ll keep it on the shelf for now and decide later.”
In a business context, if a project idea is proposed but there are other priorities, someone might say, “Let’s keep it on the shelf and revisit it when we have more resources.”
If someone suggests a change to a company policy but it requires further analysis, you might say, “We’ll keep it on the shelf and discuss it during the next policy review.”

49. Keep it on the radar

This phrase means to wait while keeping something under observation or monitoring it closely. It is often used when there is a need to stay informed about a situation or to be prepared for potential developments.

For instance, if you’re waiting for a job opportunity to arise, you might say, “I’ll keep it on the radar and apply as soon as the position becomes available.”
In a sports context, if a player is performing well in a lower league and might be a potential transfer target, a manager might say, “We’ll keep him on the radar and scout him in the next few matches.”
If someone suggests a new marketing strategy but it needs more research, you might say, “Let’s keep it on the radar and gather more data before making a decision.”

50. Keep it on the down low

This phrase means to wait while keeping something a secret or not drawing attention to it. It is often used when there is a need to be discreet or to avoid unnecessary attention.

For example, if you’re planning a surprise party for a friend, you might say, “Keep it on the down low until the day of the party.”
In a gossip-filled workplace, if you want to share some news but don’t want it to spread, you might say, “I heard something interesting, but let’s keep it on the down low for now.”
If someone asks about your weekend plans but you want to keep them private, you might say, “I have something going on, but I’ll keep it on the down low for now.”