hesitation
|hes-i-ta-tion|
B2
/ˌhɛzɪˈteɪʃən/
(hesitate)
pause due to uncertainty
Etymology
Etymology Information
'hesitation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'haesitatio', where 'haesitare' meant 'to stick or hesitate'.
Historical Evolution
'haesitatio' transformed into the Old French word 'hesitation', and eventually became the modern English word 'hesitation'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to stick or pause', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pausing due to uncertainty'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of pausing or delaying due to uncertainty or indecision.
There was a moment of hesitation before she answered.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35