loath

UK: ləʊθ | US: loʊθ

Definition

  1. adj. unwilling or reluctant (to do something)

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "loath" traces back to Old English lāþ, meaning "hostile" or "hateful." Over time, its meaning softened to describe a strong aversion or reluctance, often without the original connotation of hatred. It is related to the German leid (sorrow) and Dutch leed (grief), reflecting a shared Germanic root for unpleasant feelings. The modern sense emphasizes unwillingness rather than active hostility.

Examples

  1. She was loath to admit her mistake.

  2. He seemed loath to leave the comfort of his home.

  3. They were loath to interfere in the dispute.

  4. The team was loath to abandon the project after months of work.

  5. Despite his injury, the athlete was loath to quit the race.