hesitate

UK: ˈhez.ɪ.teɪt | US: ˈhez.ɪ.teɪt

Definition

  1. vi. to pause or hold back in uncertainty or unwillingness

  2. vi. to stammer or falter in speech

Structure
hes <stick>it <go>ate <verb suffix>hes <stick>it <go>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "hesitate" traces back to Latin haesitare, a frequentative form of haerere (to stick). The core idea is of being "stuck" in place due to uncertainty, evolving into the modern sense of pausing indecisively. The suffix -ate solidifies its role as a verb.

Examples

  1. She didn’t hesitate before jumping into the water to save the dog.

  2. He hesitated for a moment, unsure how to answer the question.

  3. The speaker began to hesitate, losing track of his argument.

  4. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

  5. I hesitated at the door, wondering if I should knock.