reluctance
noun
re·luc·tance
ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s 
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
Synonyms
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
Building families and protecting their legacies are significant themes, the latter notably in Lee’s reluctance to risk the heavily mortgaged house that her father bought to keep them on Duwamish land.
—
David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Jan. 2025
In addition to the UFC’s reluctance to book him in another fight and Lee mentioning the discussions with the GFL, Ferguson posted a cryptic video on his social media that seemingly hinted at a new beginning in his career.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
This likely influenced their interest in DIY projects—and their reluctance to ask for help.
—Fiona Tapp, Parents, 24 Jan. 2025
The case against Rucker appeared solid on paper; multiple eyewitnesses identified him as the shooter, despite their reluctance to aid police.
—Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 24 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for reluctance 
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David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Jan. 2025
In addition to the UFC’s reluctance to book him in another fight and Lee mentioning the discussions with the GFL, Ferguson posted a cryptic video on his social media that seemingly hinted at a new beginning in his career.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
This likely influenced their interest in DIY projects—and their reluctance to ask for help.
—Fiona Tapp, Parents, 24 Jan. 2025
The case against Rucker appeared solid on paper; multiple eyewitnesses identified him as the shooter, despite their reluctance to aid police.
—Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 24 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for reluctance
Dictionary Entries Near reluctance
Cite this Entry
“Reluctance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reluctance. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.
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reluctance
noun
re·luc·tance
ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s
: the quality or state of being reluctant
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