hesitation

noun

hes·​i·​ta·​tion ˌhe-zə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce hesitation (audio)
Synonyms of hesitation
1
: an act or instance of hesitating
A moment's hesitation could have meant disaster.
I would do it again without hesitation.
2
: a pausing or faltering in speech

Synonyms of hesitation

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Examples of hesitation in a Sentence

one moment's hesitation on my part, and the elusive butterfly was lost to me forever
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After some hesitation, the co-anchor finally placed his crown on his head. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 The slowdown in investment was put down to government hesitation over changes to Italy’s domestic tax incentive for TV shows and films. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2026 But the earnestness of their performances, the texture of their hesitation, makes the video far more compelling than any of its deepfake counterparts. — Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026 Decker said people who are homeless can feel hesitation to come into shelter, but Open Doors has built a rapport in the neighborhood and would want to stay. — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hesitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hesitation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing hesitation

Rhymes for hesitation

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Browse Nearby Words

hesitatingly
hesitation
hesitation form
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Cite this Entry

“Hesitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hesitation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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