Definition of "expectative" in English

adjective

1. Of or pertaining to an expectation.

2. (canon law) Of or pertaining to the reversion of a benefice.

noun

1. (canon law) The anticipatory grant of an ecclesiastical benefice, not vacant at the moment but which will become so, regularly, on the death of its present incumbent.

2. (non-native speakers' English) An expectation.