hesitation

noun

hes·​i·​ta·​tion ˌhe-zə-ˈtā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of hesitating

A moment's hesitation could have meant disaster.

I would do it again without hesitation.

2

: a pausing or faltering in speech

Synonyms of hesitation

• hesitancy
• hesitance
• pause
• delay

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

My hesitation in choosing him had to do with his background being political in experience, not administrative. — Marci Woodward, Sun Sentinel, 25 Sep. 2026

These mixed messages and unexplained changes have created hesitation in exam rooms and living rooms nationwide. — Jewel Mullen, STAT, 24 Sep. 2026

Gone are the hesitation and the quick throwaway when in trouble. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 24 Sep. 2026

Built around a Jersey club rhythm, the track moves quickly and leaves little room for hesitation. — Brittney Williams, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hesitation

• without hesitation

Rhymes for hesitation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation