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in the wings

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(wait) in the wings

to be ready to do something when the opportunity comes Other companies were waiting in the wings to sell similar drugs at much lower prices. The novel has sold well in the hardcover edition, and a paperback edition waits in the wings.

Etymology: based on the idea of an actor who waits in the wings (areas to each side of a stage) before appearing on stage

See also: wing

in the wings

Also, waiting in the wings. Nearby in the background, available on short notice. For example, Some police were in the wings in case of trouble at the rally, or There are at least a dozen young managers waiting in the wings for Harold to retire. This expression alludes to the theater, where a player waits in the wings or backstage area, unseen by the audience, for his or her turn to come on stage. [Second half of 1800s]

See also: wing

in the wings

1. In the stage wings, unseen by the audience.

2. Close by in the background; available at short notice: a presidential candidate waiting in the wings.

See also: wing