Regressive militia warn captives to expect it (5)
I believe the answer is:
await
'expect it' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.
'regressive militia warn captives' is the wordplay.
'AWAIT' is hidden back-to-front in amongst the letters.
However, I'm uncertain how this is indicated.
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for await that I've seen before include "Stay around for" , "Look out for - expect" , "Remain for (someone)" , "To be in store for (someone)" , "Expect, anticipate" .)