verb / noun

demur

dih-MUR/dɪˈmɜːr/

An expression of objection or reluctance.

When the committee asks her to lead, she demurs.

At a meeting an adult politely raises an open hand and gently shakes their head while others pause to listen; respectful objection, not confusion alone.

Etymology

The underlying verb meant “to delay,” and demur originally meant to linger or tarry. A legal objection that stopped proceedings until a point was settled supplied the bridge to expressing an objection or hesitation.

In context

Vivid Audio Library438:04

"Before you return, I demur to receiving her."

The Ordeal of Richard Feverel by George Meredith (Part 2) | Full Classic Victorian Novel Audiobook

More examples

He accepts the extra work without demur.
She demurred at the suggestion that she pay everyone's share.
The proposal passes with barely a demur from the board.

Forms

demur · demurs · demurred · demurring

demurral noun — An expression of objection or hesitation.

Similar words

object: States disagreement directly, while demur can suggest polite hesitation.
hesitate: Pauses from uncertainty, without necessarily expressing disagreement or objection.
objection: Names an expressed disagreement, often more direct than demur.