reluctance

noun

re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being reluctant
2
: the opposition offered in a magnetic circuit to magnetic flux
specifically : the ratio of the magnetic potential difference to the corresponding flux

Examples of reluctance in a Sentence

the mice showed an odd reluctance to eat the cheese we had put out for them
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Some residents also expressed reluctance to support the measure, citing the already high cost of living as their main deterrent. Luis Melecio-Zambrano, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024 This indicates a reluctance to take responsibility and hampers collaboration. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 For small business owners like Libretto, that begs some reluctance to dive head-first into the business with considerable investments. Alexandria Sands, Axios, 3 Nov. 2024 Still, many brands have been hesitant to join TikTok Shop, some out of fear of cannibalizing their other sales channels, or a reluctance, particularly among prestige and luxury brands, to partake in the discounting that often catalyzes sales on the platform. Noor Lobad, WWD, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for reluctance 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reluctance was circa 1628

Dictionary Entries Near reluctance

Cite this Entry

“Reluctance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reluctance. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

reluctance

noun
re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
: the quality or state of being reluctant

More from Merriam-Webster on reluctance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!