Langimage
English

reluctant

|re-luc-tant|

B2

/rɪˈlʌktənt/

hesitant

Etymology
Etymology Information

'reluctant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'reluctari,' where 're-' meant 'against' and 'luctari' meant 'to struggle.'

Historical Evolution

'reluctari' transformed into the French word 'reluctant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reluctant' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to struggle against something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'unwilling or hesitant.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

unwilling and hesitant; disinclined.

She was reluctant to leave the party early.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35