adj

hesitating

HEH-zih-tay-tihng

Hesitating (adj) means pausing or acting slowly because of uncertainty or reluctance. Example: “He gave a hesitating nod, clearly not fully convinced.”

adj

Pausing or acting slowly because of uncertainty or reluctance.

"He gave a hesitating nod, clearly not fully convinced."

How to use hesitating

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishShowing hesitation — slow, uncertain, or reluctant in manner.

Word forms

hesitatings plural

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He gave a _____ nod, clearly not fully convinced.

Rhymes for hesitating

mating rating eating dating hating heating grating stating beating coating skating seating

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Frequently asked questions

What does “hesitating” mean?

The word “hesitating” means pausing or acting slowly because of uncertainty or reluctance. In plain terms, showing hesitation — slow, uncertain, or reluctant in manner.

How do you pronounce “hesitating”?

“Hesitating” is pronounced HEH-zih-tay-tihng (/ˈhɛzɪteɪtɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “hesitating” in a sentence?

Here is “hesitating” used in a sentence: “He gave a hesitating nod, clearly not fully convinced.”

What part of speech is “hesitating”?

“Hesitating” is an adjective.