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Showing results for hesitant. Search instead for hesitan.
Definitions

hesitant

[hez-i-tuhnt] / ˈhɛz ɪ tənt /
ADJECTIVE
uncertain, waiting
Synonyms
STRONGEST
afraid averse doubtful halting indecisive loath reluctant shy skeptical slow tentative timid unsure unwilling
WEAK
backward dawdling delaying diffident disinclined doubting faltering half-hearted hanging back hesitating irresolute lacking confidence lazy uneager unpredictable vacillating wavering
Antonyms
STRONGEST
believing bold brave certain confident decisive definite eager extroverted fearless ready sure willing
WEAK
resolute unhesitant unwavering

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.

Profits at Micron and its rivals have been soaring exponentially, but some investors have been hesitant to get too excited, as the memory market is known to deliver dramatic booms and then busts.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Previous city leaders were too hesitant to build temporary housing for homeless people, she said, leaving them to languish on sidewalks while waiting for government-funded apartments to be built.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Initially Chloe was hesitant to tell friends and family that she was being affected by infertility.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The lowered revenue guidance External link for the year ahead was centered precisely in network solutions as life sciences clients remain hesitant to commit to larger spending budgets.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

Years ago she might have been hesitant to open her door to him.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins