Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Waiting in concealment; in ambush: Describes the state of hiding or positioning oneself secretly, typically with the intention of making a surprise attack or observing someone without being seen.

2. Noun:

   • The act of concealing yourself and lying in wait to attack by surprise: Refers to the specific action or instance of hiding and waiting to launch a surprise assault.

Usage

• The phrase "lying in wait" is used to describe a deliberate, stealthy, and often hostile act of waiting. It implies patience, planning, and an element of surprise. It is commonly used in legal, military, and narrative contexts.

Examples

• Adjective:

  • The soldiers were lying in wait for the enemy convoy.
  • The predator remained perfectly still, lying in wait for its prey.

• Noun:

  • The prosecutor argued that the murder involved lying in wait, making it a premeditated act.
  • The success of the ambush depended on the perfect execution of their lying in wait.

Advanced Usage

• Legal Context: In criminal law, "lying in wait" is often a specific legal factor that can indicate premeditation or aggravate a crime, such as murder.
  • The charge was elevated to first-degree murder due to evidence of lying in wait.

Variants and Related Words

• Ambush (n/v): A surprise attack from a concealed position; to attack from such a position.
  • They planned an ambush at the narrow pass.
• Waylaying (n): The act of lying in wait to attack or intercept someone.
  • The waylaying of the messenger prevented the news from getting through.

Synonyms

• In ambush: Positioned for a surprise attack.
• Lurking: Remaining hidden, often with a sinister purpose.
• Concealed: Kept out of sight.

Related Phrases

• To lie in wait for (someone/something): This is the standard phrasal construction.
  • The detectives believed the assailant was lying in wait for his victim.

Related Idioms

• To lay a trap for: To set up a situation to catch someone by surprise, which is conceptually similar to lying in wait but involves more active preparation of a snare or trick.
  • The investigators laid a trap for the corrupt official.

Adjective

1. waiting in concealment; in ambush
   • an army lying in wait in the forest

Noun

1. the act of concealing yourself and lying in wait to attack by surprise