demur

[dih-mur]

verb (used without object)

demurred, demurring 

1. to make objection, especially on the grounds of scruples; take exception; object.

   They wanted to make him the treasurer, but he demurred.

   Antonyms: assent, accede, agree, acquiesce

2. Law.,  to interpose a demurrer.

3. Archaic.,  to linger; hesitate.

noun

1. the act of making objection.

2. an objection raised.

   Synonyms: misgiving, qualm, scruple

3. hesitation.

4. Law: Obsolete.,  a demurrer.

demur

/ dɪˈmɜː /

verb

1. to raise objections or show reluctance; object

2. law to raise an objection by entering a demurrer

3. archaic,  to hesitate; delay

noun

1. the act of demurring

2. an objection raised

3. archaic,  hesitation

Other Word Forms

• demurrable adjective
• undemurring adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of demur¹

1175–1225; Middle English demuren < Anglo-French demurer, Old French demorer < Latin dēmorārī to linger, equivalent to dē- de- + morārī to delay, derivative of mora delay

Word History and Origins

Origin of demur¹

C13: from Old French demorer, from Latin dēmorārī to loiter, linger, from morārī to delay, from mora a delay

Example Sentences

Harris, who announced this summer that she would not run for California governor next year, demurred when asked about whether she would run for president for a third time in 2028.

From Los Angeles Times

Asked specifically if her group is preparing to sue over Texas’ maps, Rohani demurred — but didn’t back down, saying LDF will get involved “in any jurisdiction where Black voters are being targeted.”

From Los Angeles Times

I demur, along with members of the British royal family apparently.

From Los Angeles Times

Asked about Texas, she demurred, saying she was focused on California.

From Los Angeles Times

As for thoughts of his legacy, he demurs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hesitate 
• vacillate 
• waver