imperative Wait your turn; get in line; there are a lot of other people looking or waiting for the same thing as you. (Refers to offices or shops that distribute printed numbers to let customers know the order in which they'll be helped. Often said somewhat ironically or sarcastically.) A: "Excuse me, I'm looking to speak to the dean of the university." B: "Take a number, kid. Everyone in here is waiting to speak to her." A: "Boy, I'd love to go out with Danny sometime." B: "Well, you'll have to take a number."