Definitions

reluctant

[ri-luhk-tuhnt] / rɪˈlʌk tənt /

ADJECTIVE

unenthusiastic, unwilling

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse cautious circumspect hesitant loath shy slow squeamish uncertain wary

WEAK

backward calculating chary demurring diffident discouraged disheartened disinclined grudging hanging back hesitating indisposed involuntary laggard opposed queasy recalcitrant remiss slack tardy uneager

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bold careless certain definite heedless incautious indiscreet rash ready sure uncareful willing

WEAK

anxious eager enthusiastic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Speaking in a recent episode of the documentary series The Reluctant Traveller, he told presenter Eugene Levy "change is on my agenda, change for good".

From BBC • Nov. 29, 2025

Appeared in the November 13, 2025, print edition as 'A Reluctant Spy, Entangled Again'.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 12, 2025

Reluctant to break the spell, Remi said nothing.

From Slate • Jan. 27, 2024

Reluctant and visibly distressed residents allowed a female police officer into their homes to verify the identification of women and children as well.

From Reuters • Nov. 21, 2023

Reluctant to face hostile voters, the president began to feel like a prisoner in the White House.

From "Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War" by Steve Sheinkin

Vocabulary lists containing reluctant

List 3

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