a. [ Cf. F. expectatif. ] Constituting an object of expectation; contingent. [ 1913 Webster ]

Expectative grace, a mandate given by the pope or a prince appointing a successor to any benefice before it becomes vacant. Foxe. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ F. expectative, fr. expectatif expectant. ] Something in expectation; esp., an expectative grace. Milman. [ 1913 Webster ]