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.
But even if the cultural hesitation fades, there are a few hurdles unique to building platonic bonds online. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 26 Sep. 2025 That moment of hesitation often makes the difference between staying safe and becoming a victim. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 Sep. 2025 Despite not being an elite athlete, Jakucionis can also create his shot with quality dribbling, hesitation moves and a developing stepback jumper. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 22 Sep. 2025 Swinney has been openly critical of the evolving college football landscape, showing strong hesitation to bend his long-standing coaching philosophies. Matt Audilet, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Hesitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hesitation. Accessed 28 Sep. 2025.

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