hesitate

Definition

To stop or pause respecting decision or action; to be in suspense or uncertainty as to a determination.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin haesitātus, perfect passive participle of haesitō (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), intensive of haereō (“to hesitate, stick fast; to hang or hold fast”). Displaced native Old English wandian. Compare French hésiter.

Example Sentences

• "He hesitated whether to accept the offer or not; men often hesitate in forming a judgment."
• "September 1, 1742, Alexander Pope, letter to Racine I shall not hesitate to declare myself very cordially, in regard to some particulars about which you have desired an answer."
• "Just hint a fault, and hesitate dislike."

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