hesitant
UK: ˈhez.ɪ.tənt | US: ˈhez.ɪ.tənt
adj. showing indecision or reluctance
adj. pausing or holding back due to uncertainty
The word "hesitant" derives from the Latin haesitare, meaning "to stick fast" or "to hesitate," which itself comes from haerere ("to adhere, cling"). The suffix -ant (from Latin -ans/-antis) forms adjectives indicating a state or quality. Over time, "hesitant" evolved to describe someone who is mentally "stuck" or reluctant to act due to uncertainty.
She was hesitant to accept the job offer without more details.
His hesitant speech revealed his nervousness.
The cat took a hesitant step toward the unfamiliar object.
Investors remain hesitant amid economic uncertainty.
A hesitant smile crossed her face as she considered the proposal.