Waiting in the wings
Meaning
To be ready and available to take action or assume a role, often while anticipating an opportunity to do so.
Origin
In the world of theatre, the 'wings' are the narrow, offstage areas to the immediate left and right of the main performing space, hidden from the audience's view by scenery flats and curtains. It's in these shadowy corridors that actors stand, poised and silent, listening intently for their cue to make a dramatic entrance onto the stage. This vivid image of an actor, costume ready and lines memorized, ready to burst into the spotlight, perfectly captures the essence of someone prepared to seize an opportunity or step into a role at a moment's notice. The phrase, originating in the 19th century, transplants the dramatic tension of the stage directly into everyday situations.
Examples
- The junior executive was waiting in the wings, hoping for a promotion when his manager retired.
- With the star player injured, the rookie pitcher found himself waiting in the wings, prepared to step onto the mound.