adjective

having or showing an excited feeling that something is about to happen, especially something good.

expectant crowds arrived early

eager,excited,agog,waiting with bated breath,breathless,waiting,anticipatory,hopeful,in suspense,on tenterhooks,on the edge of one’s seat,keyed up,on pins and needles,anxious

noun

a person who anticipates receiving something, especially high office.

some devoted themselves to the wearer of the crown, and others to the expectant