reluctance

noun

re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being reluctant

2

: the opposition offered in a magnetic circuit to magnetic flux

specifically : the ratio of the magnetic potential difference to the corresponding flux

Synonyms of reluctance

• unwillingness
• hesitancy
• reticence
• hesitance
• doubt
• disinclination

Examples of reluctance in a Sentence

the mice showed an odd reluctance to eat the cheese we had put out for them

Recent Examples on the Web

Every generation faces a new wave of technological disruption and responds with the same blend of overconfidence, short-termism, and reluctance to let go of what’s working. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 23 Apr. 2026

And one reason may be their reluctance to give back. —Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026

Analysts have noted also that Europe's reluctance to join wars, especially those in the Middle East, has been longstanding and bipartisan. —David Brennan, ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026

The article acknowledges that even with formal policies in place, resistance and non-compliance have persisted, noting that colleagues have attempted workarounds or expressed reluctance to accept accountability despite clear consequences. —Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reluctance

• conductance
• inductance
• transconductance

Kids Definition

reluctance

noun

re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being reluctant