v.intr. 1 (often foll. by about, over) show or feel indecision or uncertainty; pause in doubt (hesitated over her choice). 2 (often foll. by to + infin.) be deterred by scruples; be reluctant (I hesitate to inform against him). hesitater n. hesitatingly adv. hesitation n. hesitative adj.
[ L haesitare frequent. of haerere haes- stick fast ]