Waits patiently while models are away (4,3)

I believe the answer is:

sits out

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'waits patiently while' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'models are away' is the wordplay.
'models' becomes 'sits' ('sit' can be a synonym of 'model').
'are away' becomes 'out' (synonyms).
'sits'+'out'='SITS OUT'

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I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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