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hesitative

American  
[hez-i-tey-tiv] / ˈhɛz ɪˌteɪ tɪv /

adjective

  1. characterized by hesitation; hesitating.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of hesitative

First recorded in 1785–95; hesitate + -ive

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.

See Examples For:

On the contrary, they look suspiciously like being undecided and hesitative about whether to let me proceed peacefully on my way or not.

From Around the World on a Bicycle - Volume 1 From San Francisco to Teheran by Stevens, Thomas

"Admiral Darling is kind enough to think," said Scudamore, in his mild, hesitative way, blushing outwardly, but smiling inwardly, "that I am too good to be a clergyman."

From Springhaven : a Tale of the Great War by Blackmore, R. D. (Richard Doddridge)

Upon which Daun did strive to bestir himself thitherward, at last; and, though very slow and hesitative, his measures otherwise were unexceptionable, and turned out luckier than had been expected by some people.

From History of Friedrich II of Prussia — Volume 18 by Carlyle, Thomas

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