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Synonyms

hesitancy

American  
[hez-i-tuhn-see] / ˈhɛz ɪ tən si /
Also hesitance

noun

hesitancies plural
  1. hesitation; indecision or disinclination.


Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Inflected Forms

Nouns

Etymology

Origin of hesitancy

From the Latin word haesitantia, dating back to 1610–20. See hesitant, -ancy

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.

On top of that hesitancy about the real effects of returning to the SAT is the fact that not all UC professors agree it is impossible for lacking students to catch up.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 8, 2026

The emotional roller coaster his comments and the subsequent backlash took us on are emblematic of a larger hesitancy and resistance to change.

From Slate • Jun. 15, 2026

So, there is a level of hesitancy," he said. "But to be honest, that level of hesitancy can be overcome through price stimulation.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

“Moreover, the macro uncertainty likely creates a more cautious tone from the C-suite or some hesitancy in upping guidance especially for cyclical firms.”

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Now, without instruction or practice, without hesitancy, her fingers felt the way to twist and weave and stitch the special threads together to create designs rich and explosive with color.

From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry

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