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DictionaryloathUnwilling
adjective

loath

LOHTH/ləʊθ/

Unwilling or reluctant to do something.

The teenager is loath to begin the chore and approaches the bucket reluctantly.

Black teenager reluctantly approaches a chore bucket, hesitant posture and reluctant expression.
Etymology
loathOld Englishhated; hateful

Old English lað expressed hatred or repulsiveness. That strong aversion weakened into disinclination: someone loath to do something is reluctant, rather than necessarily disgusted by it.

In context

Storytime Haven32:47
in the gloaming, I shall enjoy unfair advantage that I am loath to take. For I can see in the dark by the light of my own eye balls--a gift denied to you.
The lavender dragon by Eden Phillpotts | Fantasy Full Audiobook

More examples

  • I'm loath to admit it, but you were right.
  • The owners are loath to raise prices again.
  • He seems loath to ask anyone for help.

Forms

loath

loathe verb — To feel strong dislike or disgust.

Similar words

reluctant
Suggests hesitation or resistance, without necessarily implying strong aversion.
unwilling
States a lack of willingness more directly and neutrally.