Definition of: anticipation

(an·tis′ə·pā′shən) noun
1. The act of anticipating; especially, a foreseeing or foretaste; expectation.
2. An instinctive prevision.
3. Music The introduction of a note before its expected place in the harmony. Synonyms: antepast, apprehension, expectancy, expectation, foreboding, forecast, foresight, foretaste, forethought, hope, presentiment, prevision. Expectation may be either of good or evil; presentiment almost always, apprehension and foreboding always, of evil; anticipation and antepast, commonly of good. Thus, we speak of the pleasures of anticipation. A foretaste may be of good or evil, and is more than imaginary; it is a part actually received in advance. Foresight and forethought prevent future evil and secure future good by timely looking forward, and acting upon what is foreseen. Compare ANTICIPATE. Antonyms: astonishment, consummation, despair, doubt, dread, enjoyment, fear, realization, surprise, wonder.
ANTICIPATION (def. 3)