waver
13 synonyms and 3 antonyms for waver, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To hesitate or show signs of doubt, especially about a decision or resolve.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To hesitate or show signs of doubt, especially about a decision or resolve.
“He wavered before finally signing the contract.”
Opposites
2. noun
An instance of hesitating or losing steadiness.
“There was a slight waver in his voice as he spoke.”
How to use waver
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
waver in one's resolve
never waver
voice wavered
Etymology
From Middle English waveren, related to Old English wafian ("to wave"), sharing a root with the word "wave" itself.
Full origin of waver →Frequently asked questions
What does “waver” mean?
The word “waver” means to hesitate or show signs of doubt, especially about a decision or resolve. In plain terms, to hesitate, lose confidence, or become unsteady.
How do you pronounce “waver”?
“Waver” is pronounced WAY-vuh (/ˈweɪvəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “waver” in a sentence?
Here is “waver” used in a sentence: “He wavered before finally signing the contract.”
What part of speech is “waver”?
Depending on how it is used, “waver” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “waver” come from?
The word “waver” comes from Old English. From Middle English waveren, related to Old English wafian ("to wave"), sharing a root with the word "wave" itself.
How many meanings does “waver” have?
“Waver” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to hesitate or show signs of doubt, especially about a decision or resolve.
