adjective
hesitant
HEZ-ih-tunt/ˈhezɪtənt/
Slow to act or decide because of uncertainty or reluctance.
He makes a hesitant attempt to step onto the crossing stones.
Etymology
Latin haesitare meant “to stick fast” or “stammer,” suggesting getting stuck rather than proceeding smoothly. Hesitant probably arose from hesitancy, though it may come directly from the Latin participle.
In context
You meet someone that you're attracted to and you start dating, but you're hesitant to become exclusive because you fear you're going to miss out on someone better.
More examples
- Her hesitant reply suggests she is unsure.
- The child takes a hesitant step toward the water.
- She grows less hesitant with practice.
Forms
hesitant · more hesitant · most hesitant
Similar words
- reluctant
- Emphasizes unwillingness rather than uncertainty.
- uncertain
- Uncertain lacks confidence or knowledge; hesitant shows that uncertainty through delayed action.