hesitations
|hes-i-ta-tions|
🇺🇸
/ˌhɛzɪˈteɪʃənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌhezɪˈteɪʃ(ə)nz/
(hesitation)
a pause caused by doubt
Etymology
'hesitation' originates from Latin, specifically the verb 'haesitāre' (a frequentative of 'haerēre'), where 'haerēre' meant 'to stick' or 'to cling'. The English noun formed with the suffix '-ation'.
'hesitation' changed from Latin 'haesitāre' into Old French 'hesiter' and Middle English 'hesiten/hesiten', and eventually became the modern English noun 'hesitation' by adding the nominal suffix '-ation' to the verb 'hesitate'.
Initially related to the idea of 'sticking' or 'being fixed' (from Latin), the meaning shifted over time to 'pausing or being reluctant' and now primarily means a pause or doubt before action or speech.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a brief pause or delay because of uncertainty or indecision.
He had a few hesitations before answering the question.
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Noun 2
expressions of doubt or reluctance; reservations about something.
Despite some hesitations from the board, the plan was approved.
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Noun 3
a noticeable pause in speech, often showing uncertainty or searching for words.
Her hesitations during the interview made the interviewer ask follow-up questions.
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Last updated: 2025/12/18 11:23