The phrase "kept waiting" is spelled as [kept ˈweɪtɪŋ] in IPA phonetic transcription. The word "kept" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by a voiceless "p" and a voiceless "t" sound. The word "waiting" consists of two syllables, with the first syllable pronounced as a stressed "way" sound, and the second syllable pronounced with a short "i" sound and a voiceless "t" sound. Overall, the spelling of "kept waiting" accurately represents the pronunciation of the words.
Kept waiting refers to the situation where someone is made to wait longer than expected for a specific action, event, or response. It implies that the person has been waiting for an extended period without any update or progress, resulting in frustration, annoyance, or inconvenience. This term is commonly used when someone has been waiting for another individual who is late or taking a considerable amount of time to fulfill a commitment or obligation.
When someone is kept waiting, it typically denotes a lack of respect for the other person's time or a failure to prioritize punctuality and timeliness. It implies a breach of social norms or common courtesy, as it signifies a disregard for the importance of promptness and reliability.
Being kept waiting can lead to feelings of impatience, irritation, or discomfort, as the individual's time and schedule are affected. It can be particularly aggravating when there is no communication or explanation provided for the delay, leading to uncertainty and frustration.
In various contexts, such as professional settings or personal relationships, being kept waiting can strain trust and create negative impressions of the individual responsible for the delay. It is considered polite and respectful to apologize or provide an update when circumstances cause someone to be kept waiting, as it helps mitigate any adverse effects on the relationship or situation.
The phrase "kept waiting" is not derived from a specific etymology as it consists of common words in the English language.
"Kept" is the past tense and past participle of the verb "keep", which originates from Old English "cēpan" meaning "to care for" or "to hold, seize". It evolved over time to encompass various meanings, including "to retain possession of" or "to have or hold in one's possession".
"Waiting" is the present participle of the verb "wait", which comes from Old French "waitier" meaning "to watch, observe, or await". The Old French term has its roots in the Germanic language and is related to the Old High German "wahtōn" meaning "to be awake".
When combined, "kept waiting" simply means the act of causing someone to wait or holding them in a state of anticipation.