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.
For example, a financial services organization rolling out a new product and working to generate sales using only CRM data might overlook early signs of buyer hesitation. Eilon Reshef, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025 The common signs of vision loss include bumping into objects, difficulty finding food or toys, hesitation with jumping, anxiety, clinginess, or even aggression due to vulnerability. Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025 Outwardly, the hesitation appeared an admission of guilt. Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 After some hesitation during the holiday season, investors have resumed pouring money into these funds. Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 6 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 18 Jan. 2025.

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