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

But perhaps best of all is the city’s reluctance to take itself too seriously. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026

Hefty upfront costs, issues disposing of radiation and waste, and memories of terrible accidents have all contributed to Europe’s reluctance to embrace nuclear energy in recent decades. —Joseph Wilkins, CNBC, 4 May 2026

Trump has also expressed anger over European allies’ reluctance to get involved in the conflict. —Mark Carlson, Los Angeles Times, 4 May 2026

Combine that with the Lakers’ reluctance to crash the offensive glass, and this is a profound advantage for Oklahoma City. —Law Murray, New York Times, 4 May 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