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Definition of hesitate

hesitate

/ˈhɛz.ɪ.teɪt/
hes · i · tate
Adverb:hesitantly
•
Adjective:hesitant
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Past Simple:hesitated
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Past Participle:hesitated
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Present Participle:hesitating
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hesitate Lexical Profile

hesitate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To pause in indecision or uncertainty before saying or doing something.

Example

"She hesitated for a moment before signing the employment contract."

2

To be reluctant or unwilling to do something.

Example

"Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any further questions."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for hesitate

• Nearby Words

hesitancy
hesitant
hesitantly
hesitate
hesitatingly
hesitation
hesitator

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin haesitatus, the past participle of haesitare ('to stick fast, stammer, or be indecisive'), a frequentative form of haerere ('to stick or cling').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hesitate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hesitate
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