reluctance

noun

re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
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

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
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.
Opposition lawmakers brought the motion against Han on Thursday over the acting president’s reluctance to immediately appoint three justices in the Constitutional Court, which is preparing to kick off deliberations on upholding Yoon’s impeachment or reinstating him. Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 27 Dec. 2024 This has been explained to be due to the noisiness of the current IMAX cameras combined with Nolan’s reluctance to use automatic dialogue replacement (ADR). Benny Har-Even, Forbes, 26 Dec. 2024 Brown then addressed reporters with a little reluctance after being asked about his physical feelings on Friday but confirmed his availability. Gord Magill, Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024 Separating Art From Politics Deadline encountered a reluctance to discuss Rowling among industry producers and executives, with many unwilling to wade into a culture war. Jake Kanter, Deadline, 19 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for reluctance 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reluctance was circa 1628

Dictionary Entries Near reluctance

Cite this Entry

“Reluctance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reluctance. Accessed 13 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

reluctance

noun
re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
: the quality or state of being reluctant

More from Merriam-Webster on reluctance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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