hesitation
noun
hes·i·ta·tion
ˌhe-zə-ˈtā-shən 
1
: an act or instance of hesitating
A moment's hesitation could have meant disaster.
I would do it again without hesitation.
2
: a pausing or faltering in speech
Examples of hesitation in a Sentence
one moment's hesitation on my part, and the elusive butterfly was lost to me forever
Recent Examples on the Web
In his view, hesitation invites escalation.
—
Jason D. Greenblatt, semafor.com, 9 Jan. 2026
Despite some analyst hesitation that the popular running brands may be losing some of their steam in the market, both labels posted stellar earnings in their most recent quarterly reports.
—Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 8 Jan. 2026
If the reasons behind an expense feel fuzzy, analyze the details and ask for a clear summary, because precise information turns hesitation into a calm, confident decision.
—Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 8 Jan. 2026
Some concerned about size of ballroom Commissioner Phil Mendelson, who chairs the DC City Council, expressed hesitation about the height of the project.
—Joey Garrison, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hesitation
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Cite this Entry
“Hesitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hesitation. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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