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definitions

irresolution

[ih-rez-uh-loo-shuh n]
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noun

lack of resolution; lack of decision or purpose; vacillation.

Origin of irresolution

First recorded in 1585–95; irresolute + -ion
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Related Words for irresolution

oscillation, fluctuation, dubiety, pause, reluctance, delay, doubt, wavering, indecisiveness, timidness, vacillation, timidity, indecision, misgiving, equivocation, qualm, hesitancy, scruple, unwillingness, mistrust

Examples from the Web for irresolution

Historical Examples of irresolution

  • This event completed the conquest of Boabdil over his own irresolution.

    Leila, Complete

    Edward Bulwer-Lytton

  • We see the effects of this irresolution, although we cannot assign a cause for it.

    Reflections

    Francois Duc De La Rochefoucauld

  • I cannot profess sorrow for that, nor irresolution in that, nor shame in that.

  • In this state of irresolution Gomez Arias remained for some time.

    Gomez Arias

    Joaqun Telesforo de Trueba y Coso

  • Jean gave vent to a muttered oath in his irresolution and despair.

    The Downfall

    Emile Zola

Word Origin and History for irresolution
n.

1590s, from French irrésolution (16c.), from ir-, assimilated form of in- "not, opposite of" (see in- (1)) + résolution (see resolution).

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper