hesitation

noun

hes·​i·​ta·​tion ˌhe-zə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce hesitation (audio)
1
: an act or instance of hesitating
2
: a pausing or faltering in speech

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.
This hesitation is likely due to concerns over potential legal liability if Trump reverses course and enforces the ban afterall. Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 Other high-profile candidates, it was noted, would have significant hesitation signing up to work with Poles as GM at all given his spotty track record in that role over three seasons. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 20 Jan. 2025 Does the Trump administration find my hesitation valid and a reason for creating exceptions? Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 Dylan Andrews rose for the midrange jumper without a hint of hesitation, beating the halftime buzzer and extending his team’s massive lead. Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for hesitation 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hesitation was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near hesitation

Cite this Entry

“Hesitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hesitation. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

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