ἀναμένω
anaménō
G362 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To wait for, to remain in expectation of someone or something; to stay or reside in anticipation. The primary meaning involves an active, expectant waiting, with the sense of looking forward to an arrival or event, rather than a passive, indefinite waiting. In various contexts, it can indicate anticipating the coming or presence of a person, usually with purpose or hope.
Semantic Range
to await actively, to expect, to look forward to, to remain in anticipation, to tarry for someone or something
Root / Etymology
From ἀνά (up, again, back) + μένω (to remain, abide, stay). The prefix suggests a sense of directionality or continuity added to the base concept of remaining.
Historical & Contextual Notes
First attested in post-classical Greek, especially in Koine. Rare in earlier Greek. In the New Testament, ἀναμένω appears in contexts of awaiting someone or an anticipated event, often with a sense of hopeful expectation. The sense can involve emotional readiness or preparation. Not a fully common word outside biblical and Hellenistic Jewish literature. Standard English translations like 'wait for' or 'await' generally capture the active, intentional sense, but may not reflect the nuance of anticipation and emotional involvement implicit in Koine use. Distinct from simple μένω (to remain, stay), as the prepositional prefix intensifies the sense of looking forward or upholding expectancy. Used in 1 Thessalonians 1:10 for waiting for the 'Son from the heavens,' expressing an active, forward-looking hope.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἀνά and μένω; to await:--wait for.
Root Family
ἀναμένω (anaménō) — to remain, to stay, to endure, to await expectantly
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G362-01 |
ἀναμένειν | anamenein | V PRS ACT INF |
to wait for | to remain in expectation | to remain in expectation | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G362-01 |
1 Thessalonians 1:10 | ἀναμένειν | anamenein | V PRS ACT INF |
to wait for | to remain in expectation | to remain in expectation |