reluctant

adjective

ri-ˈlək-tənt How to pronounce reluctant (audio)
Definition of reluctantnext
as in hesitant
slow to begin or proceed with a course of action because of doubts or uncertainty I'm reluctant to let you borrow my vintage CDs since you never give back anything I lend you

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word reluctant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of reluctant are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and loath. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

In what contexts can averse take the place of reluctant?

While the synonyms averse and reluctant are close in meaning, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

Where would disinclined be a reasonable alternative to reluctant?

The words disinclined and reluctant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

When could hesitant be used to replace reluctant?

Although the words hesitant and reluctant have much in common, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use loath instead of reluctant?

The meanings of loath and reluctant largely overlap; however, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reluctant Investors therefore were reluctant to pay a high multiple for earnings that may not last. — Isabella Gao, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 The legal and public scrutiny around the deaths of Clancy’s three young children could make psychiatrists more reluctant to treat mothers with mental illness. — Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 31 Aug. 2026 Uppsala Is An Easy Addition To Stockholm Travelers reluctant to give up time in Stockholm do not necessarily have to. — David Nikel, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 According to Rashidian, people are increasingly reluctant to discuss politics or their involvement in January’s protests, fearing surveillance and retaliation. — Julia Vargas Jones, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reluctant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reluctant
  1. hesitant
  2. unwilling
Adjective
  • Determined to find her in real life, Ted talks a hesitant Lenny into joining him on a road trip to Clearwater Beach, Florida.
    — Derek Lawrence, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Determined to find her in real life, Ted talks a hesitant Lenny into joining him on a road trip to Clearwater Beach, FL.
    — Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of hesitant
Adjective
  • The first-generation Apple Watch SE is a practical entry point for someone curious about the Apple Watch but unwilling to pay flagship prices.
    — StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The Iranians have now discovered the power of their geography and seem unwilling to give up on controlling/administering the Strait of Hormuz.
    — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of unwilling

Browse Nearby Words

reluctance
reluctant
reluctantly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reluctant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reluctant. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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