See Also: hesitate(dictionary)
hesitate(dictionary)

hesitate (iou)



hesitate verb. E17.
[Latin haesitat- pa. ppl stem of haesitare stick fast, be undecided, stammer, from haes- pa. ppl stem of haerere stick, hold fast: see -ATE3.]
verb intrans. Pause irresolutely; show or speak with indecision (about, over); be reluctant to do; be deterred by scruples. E17.
L. Steffens The items are so incredible that I hesitate to print them. J. Marquand A time when it is better to do something, even if it is wrong, than to hesitate. W. Soyinka They would not hesitate to put an end to my life.
b. Move in an indecisive or faltering manner. E20.
verb intrans. Stammer or falter in speech. E18.
verb trans. Express with hesitation. M18.
W. Godwin I hesitated a confused and irresolute answer. Sir W. Scott 'I am not sure,' hesitated Edith.
hesitative adjective showing or given to hesitation L18.
hesitatively adverb L19.
hesitatory adjective (now rare or obsolete) hesitative M18.