Final answer:
The word 'wait' means to stay or remain in place until an expected event occurs. This applies to literal situations like waiting for traffic or high waters to recede, as well as metaphorical scenarios involving fate and decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
To stay or remain until an expected event happens is best described by the word 'wait'. This involves stopping any forward motion and becoming stationary until whatever is anticipated occurs. This is often used in various situations, such as when you're advised to wait for traffic to clear, or when you need to wait for a river that's swollen due to heavy rains to subside before you can cross it safely.
In a metaphorical sense, this concept can also be extended to decision-making and fate, such as in the hypothetical scenario where one has the illusion of choice to remain in place or move, but fate has determined the outcome regardless. Nevertheless, in the context of the question, the word 'wait' accurately encapsulates the meaning of remaining in place until an expected event unfolds.